I 


A 

SHORT  ACCOUNT  OF 

; 

THE 

COURTSHIP  OF    • 

ALONZO  tf  MELISSA 

SETTING  FORTH  THEIR 
HARDSHIPS  AND  DIFFICULTIES, 
CAUSED  BY  THE  BARBARITY 

OF  AN  UNFEELING  FATHER. 


In  ev'ry  vary'd  postuie,  place  and  hour, 
How  widow 'd  ev'ry  thought  of  ev'ry  joy  ! 


YOUNG* 


PLATTSBURGH,  N.    Y. 
PRINTED    FOR  THE  PROPRIETOR. 


1811. 


PREFACE. 

WHETHER  the  story  of  Aionzo  and  M^lis- 
sa  will  generally  please,  the  writer  knows  not  ; 
if,  however,  he  is  not  mistaken,  it  is  not  unfriend- 
ly  to  religion  and  to  virtue.  One  thing  was 
aimed  to  be  shown,  that  a  firm  reliance  on  provi 
dence,  however  the  affections  might  be  at  war 
with  its  dispensations,  is  the  only  source  of  con 
solation  in  the  gloomy  hours  of  affliction  ;  and 
that  generally  such  dependence,  though  crossed 
by  difficulties  and  perplexities,  will  be  crowned 
with  victory  at  last. 

It  is  also  believed  that  the  story  contains  no 
indecorous  stimulants  ;  nor  is  it  filled  with  un 
meaning  and  inexplicated  incidents,  sounding 
upon  the  senses,  but  imperceptible  to  the  under 
standing.  When  anxieties  have  been  excited 
by  involved  and  doubtful  events,  they  are  after- 
wards  eludicated  by  the  consequences. 

The  writer  believes  that  generally  he  lias  cop 
ied  nature*  In  the  ardent  prospects  raised  in 
youthful  bosoms,  the  almost  consummation  of 
their  wishes,  their  sudden  and  unexpected  disap 
pointment,  the  sorrows  of  separation,  the  joyous 
^and  unlocked  for  meeting — In  the  poignant  feel 
ings  of  Aionzo  when  at  the  grave  of  Melissa,  he 
poured  the  feelings  of  his  anguished  soul  over 
her  miniature  by  the  *'  moon's  pale  ray."  When 
Melissa,  sinking  on  her  knees  before  her  father, 
was  received  to  his  bosom  as  a  beloved  daughter 
risen  from  the  dead. 

If  these  scenes  are  not  imperfectly  drawn,  they 
will  not  fail  to  interest  the  rdincd  sc 
die  reader. 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

A  TALE. 


IN  the  time  of  the  late  revolution,  two  young 
gentlemen  of  Connecticut,  who  had  formed 
an  indissoluble  friendship,  graduated  at  Yale  col- 
lege  in  New  Haven  ;  their  names  were  Edgar 
and  Alonzo  ;  Edgar  was  the  son  of  a  respectable 
farmer,  Alonzo's  father  was  an  eminent  merchant 
—  Edgar  was  designed  for  the  desk,  Alonzo  for 
the  bar  ;  but  as  they  were  allowed  some  vacant 
time  after  their  graduation  before  they  entered 
upon  their  professional  studies,  they  improved 
this  interim  in  mutual,  friendly  visits,  mingling 
with  select  parties  in  the  amusement  of  the  day, 
and  in  travelling  through  some  parts  of  the  Unit 
ed  States. 

Edgar  had  a  sister  who,  for  some  time  had  re 
sided  with  her  cousin  at  New-London.  She  was 
now  about  to  return,  and  it  was  designed  that 
Edgar  should  go  and  attend  her  home  :  previous 
to  the  day  on  which  he  was  to  set  out,  he  was 
unfortunately  thrown  from  his  horse,  which  so 
much  injured  him  as  to  prevent  his  prosecuting' 
his  intended  journey  ;  he  therefore  invited  Alon 
zo  to  supply  his  place,  which  invitation  he  rc^li- 
ly  accepted,  and  on  the  day  appointed  set  out  for 
New  London,  where  he  arrived,  delivered  his" 
introductory  letters  to  Edgar's  cousin,  and  \vas 
Deceived  with  the  most  friendly  politer; 


A-ONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

,  the  sister  of  Edgar,  was  about  sixteen 
years  of  age.  She  was  not  what  is  esteemed  a 
striking  beauty,  but  her  appearance  was  pleasing, 
ly  interesting.  Her  figure  was  elegant  4  her  as 
pect  was  attempered  with-  a  pensive  mildness., 
which  in  her  cheerful  moments  would  light  up 
into  sprightliness  and  vivacity.  Though  on 
first  impression,  her  countenance  was  marked  by 
a  sweet  and  thoughtful  serenity,  yet  she  eminent 
ly  possessed  the  power  to 

"  Call  round  her  laughing  eyes,  in  playful  turns, 
The  glance  that  lightens,  and  the  smile  that  burns." 

Her  mind  was  adorned  with  those  delicate  graces 
which  are  the  first  ornaments  of  female  excel 
lence.  Her  mstners  were  graceful  without  af 
fectation,  and  her  taste  had  been  properly  direct 
ed  by  a  suitable  education. 

Alonzo  was  about  twenty  one  years  old  ;  he 
had  been  esteemed  an  excellent  student.  His 
appearance  was  manly,  open  and  free—His  eye 
indicated  a  nobleness  of  soul  p  although  his  as 
pect  was  tinged  with  melancholy,  yet  he  was 
naturally  cheerful.  His  disposition  was  of  the 
romantic  cast ; 

"  For  far  heyond  the  ptide  and  pornp  of  power, 
He  lov'd  the  realms  of  nature  to  explore  ; 
With  lingering  gaze  Edinjan  spring  surve/'d  .- 
Morn's  fairy  splendors;  night's  gay  curtain'd  shade. 
The  high  h'oar  cliff,  the  grove's  benighting  g'oom. 
The  wild  rose,  vvidow'd  o'er  the  vnouldeihig  tomb  ; 
The  heaven  embosom'd  sun  ;  the  rainbow's  die 
Where  lucid  forms  disport  to  fancy's  eye  ; 
The  vernal  flower,  mild  autumn's  purpling  glow., 
1  life  summer's  thunder  sod  the  wuiKr?  stiovV* 


AND  MELISSA*  7 

It  was  evening  when  Alonzo  arrived  at  the 
liouse  of  Edgar's  cousin.,  Melissa  was  at  a  ball 
which  had  been  given  on  a  matrimonial  occasion 
in  the  town.  Her  cousin  waited  on  Alonzo  to 
the  ball,  and  introduced  him  to  Melissa,  who  re 
ceived  him  with  politeness.  She  was  dressed  in 
white  embroidered  and  spangled  with  rich  silver 
lace  ;  a  silk  girdle,  enwrought  andtasseled  with 
gold,  surrounded  her  waist  ;  her  hair  was  un 
adorned  except  by  a  wreath  of  artificial  flowers, 
studded  by  a  single  diamond. 

After  the  ball  closed,  they  returned  to  the 
house  of  Edgar's  cousin.  •  Melissa's  partner  at 
the  ball  was  the  son  of  a  gentleman  of  independ 
ent  fortune  in  New- London.  He  was  a  gay 
young  man,  aged  about  twenty  five.  His  ad 
dress  was  easy,  his  manners  rather  voluptuous 
than  refined  ;  confident  but  not  ungraceful.  He 
led  the  ton  In  fashionable  circles  ;  gave  taste  its 
zest,  and  was  quite  a  favorite  with  the  ladies  gen 
erally.  His  name  was  Beauman. 

Edgar's  cousin  proposed  to  detain  Alonzo  and 
Melissa  a  few  days,  during  which  time  they  pas 
sed  in  visiting  select  friends  and  social  parties. 
Beauman  was  an  assiduous  attendant  upon  Melis 
sa  ;  he  came  one  afternoon  to  invite  her  to  ride 
out  ;  she  was  indisposed  and  excused  herself;  at 
evening  she  proposed  walking  out  with  her  cous 
in  and  his  lady.  But  they  were  prevented  from 
atending  her,  by  unexpected  company.  Alonzo 
offered  to  accompany  her.  It  was  one  of  those 
beautiful  evenings  in  the  month  of  June,  when, 


8  ALONZO  AND  METISSA. 

nature   in  those  parts  of  America  is  arrayed  in 
her  richest  dress.     They  left  the  town  and  walk* 
ed  thro' fields  adjoining  the  harbor.     The  moon 
shone  in  full  lustre,  her  white  beams  trembling 
upon  the  glassy  main,  where  skiffs  and   sails   of 
various  description  were  passing  and  repassing* 
The  shores  of  Long-Island  and  the  other  islands 
in  the  harbour,  appeared  dimly  to   float  among 
the  waves.     The  air  was  adorned  with  the  frag 
rance  of  surrounding  flowers  ;    the  sound  of  in- 
strumental  music  wafted  from  the  town,  render 
ed  sweeter  by  distance,  \vhile  the   whipperwill's 
sprightly  song  echoed  along  the  adjacent  groves. 
Farfin  the  eastern  horizon  hung  a  pile  of  brazen 
clouds,  which  had  passed  from   the  north,   over 
which,  the  crinkling  red  lightning   momentarily 
darted,  and  at  times,  long  peals  of  thunder  were 
faintly  heard.      They  walked   to  a  point  of  the 
beach,  where  stood  a  large  rock  whose  base  was 
washed  by  every  tide.     On  this  rock  they  seated 
themselves,  and  enjoyed  a  while  the  splendors  of 
the  scene — the   drapery  of  nature.     "  To  this 
place  (said  Melissa)  have  I  taken  many  a  solitary 
walk,  on  such  an  evening  as  this,  and  seated  on 
this  rock,  have  I  experienced  more  pleasing  sen 
sations  than  I  ever  received  in  the  most  splendid 
ball-room."     The  idea   impressed  the  mind   of 
Alonzo  ;  it  was  congenial   with   the  feelings  of 
his  soul. 

They  returned  at  a  late  hour,  and  the  next  day- 
set  out  for  home.  Beauman  handed  Mel;:-sa  in 
to  the  carriage,  and  he,  with  Edgar's  cousin  and 


ALON20  AND  MELISSA^  9 

his  lady,  attended  them  on  their  first  day's  jour* 
nev.  they  put  up  at  night  at  the  house  of  an  ac 
quaintance  in  Branford.  The  next  morning 
they  parted  ;  Melissa's  cousin,  his  lady  and 
Benuman  returned  to  New  London  ;  Alonzo 
and  Melissa  pursuer'  their  journey,  and  at  eve 
ning  arrived  at  her  father's  house  which  was  in 
the  westerly  part  of  the  state. 

Melissa  was  received  wiih  joyful  tenderness  by 
her  friends.  Edgar  soon  recovered  from  his 
fall,-  and  cheerfulness  again  assumed  its  most 
pleasing  aspect  in  the  family.  Edgar's  father  was 
a  plain  Connecticut  farmer.  He  was  rich  and 
his  riches  had  been  acquired  by  his  diligent  at 
tention  to  business.  He  had  loaned  money,  and 
taken  mortgages  on  lands  and  houses  for  securi 
ties,  and  as  payment  frequently  failed  he  often 
had  opportunities  of  purchasing  the-  involved 
premises  at  his  own  price.  He  well  knew  the 
worth  of  a  shilling  and  how  to  apply  it  to  its  best 
use ;  and  iu  casting  interest,  he  was  sure  never 
to  lose  a  farthing.  He  had  no  other  children  ex 
cept  Edgar  and 'Melissa,  on  whom  he  doated. — 
Destitute  of  literature  himself,  he  had  provided 
the  means  of  obtaining  it  for  his  son,  and  as  he 
•was  a  rigid  presbyterian,  he  considered  that  Ed 
gar  could  no  where  figure  so  well,  or  gain  more 
eminence,  than  in  the,  sacred  dest. 

The  time  now  arrived  when  Edgar  and  Alon 
zo  were  to  part.  The  former  repaired  to  New- 
V'crk,  where  he  was  to  enter  upon  his  profession 
al  "turtles.  The  lutter  entered  in  the  office  of  an 

B 


10  AtONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

eminent  attorney  in  his  native  town,  which  was 
about  twenty  miles  distant  from  the  village 
in  which  lived  the  family  of  Edgar  and  Me 
lissa.  Alonzo  was  the  frequent  guest  of  this 
family  ;  for  though  Edgar  was  absent,  there  was 
still  a  charm  which  attracted  him  hitlier.  If  he 
had  admired  the  manly  virtues  of  the  brother, 
could  he  fail  to  adore  the  sublimer  graces  of  the 
sister.  If  all  the  sympathies  of  the  most  ardent 
friendship  had  been  drawn  forth  towards  the  for 
mer,  must  not  the  most  tender  passions  of  the 
soul  be  attracted  by  the  milder  and  more  refined 
excellencies  of  the  other  ? 

Beauman  had  become  the  suitor  of  Melissa  ; 
but  the  distance  of  residence  rendered  it  inconve 
nient  to  visit  her  often.  He  came  regularly  once 
in  two  or  three  months,  of  course  Alonzo  and  he 
sometimes  met  Beauman  had  made  no  serious 
pretensions,  but  his  particularity  indicated  some 
thing  more  than  fashionable  politeness. 

His  manners  his  independent  situation,  his 
family,  entitled  him  to  respect.  "  It  is  not  prob 
able  therefore,  that  he  will  be  objectionable  to 
Melissa's  friends,  or  to  Melissa  herself,' '  said 
Alonzo,  with  an  involuntary  sigh. 

But  as  Beauman's  visits  to  Melissa  became 

more  frequent,  an  increasing  anxiety  took  place 

in  Alor.zo's  bosom.     He  wished  her  to  remain 

single  ;  the  idea  of  losing  her  by  marriage,  gave 

Jiim  inexpressible  regret     What  substitute  could 

ruipply   the    happy   hours  he  had  passi  d  in  her 

>:-any?  What  charm  could  wing  the  linger 


ALONZO    AND   MELISSA,  11 

f         ' 

ing  moments  when  she  was  gone  ?  In  the  recess 
of  his  studies,  he  could,  in  a  few  hours,  be  at  the 
seat  of  her  fin  her — There  his  cares  were  dissipa 
ted,  and  the  troubles  of  life,  real  or  imaginary,  on 
light  pinions  fleeted  away.  How  different  would 
be  the  scene  when  debarred  from  the  unreserved 
friendship  and  conversation  of  Melissa  !  And  un 
reserved  it  could  not  be,  were  she  not  exclusive* 
ly  mistress  of  herself.  But  was  there  not  some-1 
thing  of  a  more  refined  texture  than  friendship 
in  his  predilection  for  the  company  of  Melissa  ? 
If  so,  why  not  avow  it  ?  His  prospects,  his  fami 
ly,  and  of  course  his  pretensions  might  not  be  in 
ferior  to  those  of  Beauman.  But  perhaps  Beau- 
man  was  prefered — His  opportunities  had  been 
greater — He  had  formed  an  acquaintance  with 
her.  Distance  proved  no  barrier  to  his  addres 
ses.  His  visits  became  more  and  more  frequent. 
Was  it  not  then  highly  probable  that  he  had  se 
cured  her  affections?  Thus  reasoned  Alonzo, 
but  the  reasoning  tended  not  to  allay  the  tempest 
which  was  gathering  in  his  bosom.  He  ordered 
his  horse,  and  was  in  a  short  time  at  the  seat  of 
Melissa's  father. 

It  was  summer,  and  towardjs  evening  when  he 
arrived,  Melissa  was  sitting  by -the  window  when 
he  entered  the  hall.  She  arose  and  received  him 
with  a  smile.  "  I  have  just  been  thinking  of  an 
evening's  walk,  (said  she)  but  had  no  one  to  at 
tend  me,  and  you  have  come  just  in  time  to  per 
form  that  office.  I*vill  order  tea  immediately, 
while  you  rest  from  the  fatigues  of  your  joura :  '* 


12  ALOtfZO  AND  MELISSA. 

When  tea  was  served  up  a  servant  entered  the 
room  with  a  letter  which  he  had  found  in  the 
3^ard.  Melissa  received  it. — "  'Tis  a  letter  (said 
she)  which  I  sent  by  Beauman,  to  a  lady  in  New. 
London,  and  the  careless  roan  has  lost  it."  Turn- 
ing  to  Alonzo,  "  I  forgot  to  tell  you  that  }our 
friend  Beauman  has  been  with  us  a  few  days  ; 
he  left  us  this  morning."  "  My  friend  !"  repli 
ed  Alonzo  hastily.  "  Is  he  not  your  friend  ?" 
enquired  Melissa.  "  I  beg  pardon  madam  (an 
swered  he)  my  mind  was  absent."  He  request 
ed  us  to  present  his  respect  to  his  friend  Alonzo," 
said  she— -Alonzo  bowed  and  turned  the  conver 
sation. 

They  walked  out  and  took  a  winding  path 
which  led  along  pleasant  fields  by  a  gliding  stream 
through  a  little  grove,  and  up  a  sloping  eminence, 
which  commanded  an  extensive  prospect  of  the 
surrounding  country,  Long  Island  and  the  sound 
between  that  and  the  main  land,  and  the  open 
ing  there  off  to  the  distant  ocean. 

A  soft  and  silent  shower  had  descended ;  a 
thousand  transitory  gems  trembled  upon  the 
foliage  glittering  to  the  western  ray.  A  bright 
rainbow  sat  upon  a  southern  cloud  ;  the  light 
gales  whispered  among  the  the  branches,  agitated 
the  young  harvest  to  billowy  motion,  or  waved 
the  tops  of  the  distant,  deep  green  forest  with 
majestic  grandeur.  Flocks,  herds  and  cottages 
were  scattered  over  the  variegated  landscape. 

Hills  piled  on  hills,  receding  faded  from  tke 
;vjrsiiing  eye  mingling  with 'the  blue  mist  v:1 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  IS 

hovered  around  the  extreme  verge  of  the  ho 
rizon.  ci  This  is  a  most  beautiful  scene,"  said 
Melissa. 

It  is  indeed  (  replied  Alonzo,)  can  New  Lon 
don  boast  so  charming;  a  prospect  ?  Melissa— No 
—yes  indeed  I  can  hardly  say.  You  know  Alon- 
zo,  how  I  am  charmed  with  the  rock  at  the  point 
of  the  beach. 

Aionzo— you  told  me  of  the  happy  hours  you 
had  passed  at  that  place.  Perhaps  the  company 
which  attended  you  there,  gave  the  scenery  its 
highest  embellishment. 

Melissa.  I  know  not  how  it  happened  ;  but 
you  are  the  only  person  who  ever  attended  me 
there. 

Al.  That  is  a  little  surprising. 

Mel.  Why  surprising  ? 

AL  Where  was  Beauman  ? 

Mel.  Perhaps  he  was  not  fond  of  solitude,  Re 
sides  he  was  not  always  my  .2fozM-man. 

Al.  Some  times. 

Mel.  Yes  some  times. 

Al.  And  now  always. 

Mel.  Not  this  evening. 

Al.  He  formallv  addresses  you. 

Mel.  Well, 

>   Al.  And  will  soon  claim  the  exclusive  privi 
lege  so  to  do. 

Mel.  That  does  not  follow  of  course. 

Al.  Of  course,   if  his  intentions  are   sincere, 
and  the  wishes  of  another  should  accord  there 
with. 

Mel,  Who  am  I  to  understand  by  anotb 


14  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

** 

Al.  Melissa.      (A  pause  ensued.) 

Mel.  See  that  ship,  Afonzo,  coming  up  the 
sound  ;  how  she  ploughs  through  the  white  foam, 
while  the  breezes  flutter  among  the  sails,  vary 
ing  with  the  beams  of  the  sun. 

Al.  Yes,  it  is  almost  down. 

Mel.  What  is  almost  down  ? 

Al.  The  sun.  Was  not  you  speaking  of  the 
sun,  madam  ? 

Mel.  Your  mind  is  absent,  Alonzo  ;  I  was 
speaking  of  yonder  ship. 

Al.  1  beg  pardon  madam.  O  yes — the  ship — 
it — it  bounds  with  rapid  motion  over  the  waves. 
A  pause  ensued.  They  walked  leisurely  around 
the  bill,  and  moved  toward  home.  The  sun  sunk 
behind  the  western  hills.  Twilight  arose  in  the 
east,  and  floated  along  the  air.  Darkness  began 
to  hover  around  the  woodlands  and  vallies.  The 
beauties  of  the  landscape  slowly  receded.  le  This 
reminds  me  of  our  walk  at  New-London,"  said 
Melissa.  Do  you  remember  it  ?  enquired  Alon 
zo — certainly  I  do  (  she  replied )  I  shall  never 
forget  the  sweet  pensive  scenery  of  my  favorite 
rock.  a  Nor  I  neither,"  said  Alonzo,  with  a 
deep  drawn  sigh. 

The  next  d  uy  Alonzo  returned  to  his  studies ; 
but  different  from  his  former  visits  to  Melissa, 
instead  of  exhilarating  his  spirits,  this  had  tend 
ed  to  depress  them.  He  doubted  whether  Melis 
sa  was  not  already  engaged  to  Beauman.  His 
hopes  would  perfuade  him  that  this  was  not  the 
case  ;  but  his  fears  declared  otherwise. 

time  before  Alonzo  renewed  his 


I 

ALONZQ  AND  MELISSA.  15 

visit.  In  the  interim  lie  received  a  letter  from  a 
friend  in  the  neighbourhood  of  Melissa's  father  ; 
an  extract  from  which,  follows  : 

<c  We  are  soon  to  have  a  wedding  here  ;  you 
are  acquainted  with  the  parties — Melissa  D. — 
and  Beauman.  Such  at  least  is  our  opinion  from 
appearances,  as  Beauman  is  now  here  more  than 
half  his  time.  You  will  undoubtedly  be  a  guest. 
We  had  expected  that  you  would  have  put  in 
your  claims,  from  your  particular  attention  to  the 
Jady.  She  is  a  line  girl,  Alonzo." 

«  I  shall  never  be  a  guest  at  Melissa's  wed- 
ding,"  said  Alonzo,  as  he  hastily  passed  the 
room,  "  but  I  must  once  again  see  her  before 
that  event  takes  place.,  when  I  lose  her  forever." 
The  next  day  he  repaired  to  her  father's.  He 
enquired  for  Melissa,  she  was  gone  with  a  party 
to  the  shores  of  the  sound,  attended  by  Beauman. 
At  evening  they  returned.  Beauman  and  Alon 
zo  addressed  each  other  with  much  seeming  cor 
diality.  "  You  have  deceived  us,  Alonzo,  (said 
Melissa)  —We  concluded  you  had  forgotten 
the  road  to  this  place."  "  Was  not  that  a  hasty 
conclusion,  madam?"  replied  Alonzo.  "  I  think 
not,  she  answered,  if  your  long  absence  should 
be  construed  into  neglect.  But  we  will  hear  your 
excuse  (said  she  smiling  )  by  and  by,  and  per 
haps  pardon  you."  He  thanked  her  for  her  con 
descension. 

The  next  morning  Beauman  set  out  for  New- 
London  ;  Alonzo  observed  that  he  took  a  tender 
leave  of  Melissa,  telling  her  in  a  low  voice  that 


i0  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

he  should  have  the  happiness  of  seeing  her  again 
within  two  or  three  weeks.  After  he  was  gone, 
as  Melissa  and  Alonzo  were  sitting  in  a  room  a-' 
lone, tc  well,  sir,  (said  she)  am  I  to  hear  your  ex 
cuses  ? 

Alonzo.  For  what,  madam  ? 

Melissa.  For  neglecting  your  friends. 

Al.  I  hope  it  is  not  so  considered,  madam. 

Mel.  Seriously,  then,  why  have  you  stayed 
away  so  long  ?  Has  this  place  no  charms  in  the 
absence  of  my  brother  ? 

Al.  Would  my  presence  have  added  to  your 
felicities,  Melissa? 

Mel.  You  never  came  an  unwelcome  visitor 
here. 

.Al.  Perhaps  I  might  be  sometimes  intrusive. 

Mel.  What  times? 

Al.  When  Beau  man  is  your  guest. 

Mel.  I  have  supposed  you  were  on  friendly 
terms. 

At.  We  are. 

Mel.  Why  then  intrusive  ? 

Ai.  There  are  seasons  when  friendship  must 
yield  its  pretensions  to  a  superior  claim. 

Mel.  Perhaps  I  do  not  rightly  comprehend 
the  force  of  that  remark. 

Al.  Was  Beauman  here,  my  position  might 
be  demonstrated. 

Mel.  I  think  I  understand  you. 

Al.  And  acknowledge  my  observation  to  be 
Just; 

I.  (hesitating).Yes— *  I  believe — I  must, 


ALONZO  AND  MET.XSSA,  1? 

Melissa  was  silent. 

Al.  You  hesitate,  Melissa, 

She  was  still  silent. 

AL  Will  you,  Melissa,  answer  me  one  quesC 
tion  ? 

Mel.  (confused)  If  it  be  a  proper  one  you  are 
entitled  to  candor. 

Al.  Are  you  engaged  to  Beau  man  ? 

Mel.  [blushing]  He  has  asked  me  the  same 
question  concerning  you. 

Al.  Do  you  prefer  him  to  any  other  ? 

Mel.  [deeply  blushing,  her  eyes  cast  upon  the 
floor]  He  has  made  the  same  enquiry  respecting 
you. 

Al.  Has  he  asked  your  father's  permission  to 
address  you  ? 

Mel.   That  I  have  not  suffered  him  yet  to  da* 

Al.  Yet  ! 

Mel.  I  assure  you  I  have  not. 

Al.  [Taking  her  hand  with  anxiety]  Melissa,' 
I  beg  vou  will  deal  candidly.  I  am  entitled  to 
no  claims,  but  you  know  what  my  heart  would 
ask.  I  will  bow  to  your  decision.  Deauman  or 
Alonzo  must  relinquish  their  pretensions.  We 
cannot  share  the  blessing. 

Mel.  [Her  cheeks  suffused  with  a  varying 
glow,  her  lips  pale,  her  voice  tremulous,  her  t\t;s 
still  cast  down.]  My  parents  Iwe  informed  rv.e 
that  it  is  improper  to  receive  the  particular  ad 
dress  of  more  than  one.  I* am  conscious  of  my 
inadvertency,  and  that  the  reproof  is  just,  One 

c 


AIONZO  AND  ME1ISSA. 

therefore  must  be  dismissed      Bin — [she  hesi 
tated.] 

A  considerable  pause  ensued.  At  length  A- 
lonzo  arose— "  I  will  not  press  you  father,  [said 
he]  I  knowths  delicacy  of  your  feeling,  I  know 
your  sincerity  j  I  will  not  therefore  insist  on  y  our 
performing  the  painful  task  of  deciding  against 
jne.  Your  conduct,  in  every  point  of  view,  has 
been  discreet.  I  could  have  no  just  claims,  or  if 
J  had,  your  heart  must  sanction  them  or  they 
\vouldbeunhallowedand  unjustifiable. — I  shall 
ever  pray  for  your  felicity  Our  affections  are  not 
linger  our  direction  ;  our  happiness  depends  on 
cfur  obedience  to  their  mandates.  Whatever,, 
then,  maybe  my  sufferings,  you  are  unblamable 
and  irreproachable."  He  took  his  hat  in  ex 
treme  agitation,  and  prepared  to  take  his  h-ave. 

Melissa  had  recovered  in  some  degree  from 
lier  embarrassment,  and  collected  her  scattered 
spirits.-  <{  Your  conduct,  Alonzo,  (said  she) 
is  generous  and  noble.  Will  you  give  yourself 
the  trouble,  and  do  me  the  honor  to  see  me  once 
more  ?'*  "  I  will,  [said  he]  at  any  time  you 
shall  appoint."  "  Four  weeks,  then,  [she  said] 
from  this  day,  honor  me  with  a  visit,  and  you 
shall  have  my  decision,  and  receive  my  final  an- 
swer."  "  I  will  be  punctual  to  the  day,"  he  re 
plied,  and  bade  her  adieu. 

Alonzo's  hours  now  \vinged  heavily  away.   His 
woutt-d    cheerfulness  fied  ,     he  wooed   tlu  iiltnt 
solitary  haunts  of  "  musing,  moping  melan 
choly,"     He   loved   to   wahdcr  througb  lonely 


ALONZO   AKD  MfLISSA. 

fields,  or  along  the  verge  of  "some  ^lingering 
stream,  "when  dewy  twilight  rob'd  the  evening 
mild,"  or  "  to  trace  the  forest  glen,  thro'  which, 
the  moon  darted  his  silvery  intercepted  ray." 

He  was  fondly  indulging  a  tender  passion, 
which  prayed  upon  his  peace,  and  deeply  distur 
bed  his  repose.  He  looked  anxiously  to  the* 
hour  when  M  lissa  was  to  make  her  decision. 
He  wished,  yet  dreaded  the  event.  In  that  he 
foresaw,  or  thought  he  foresaw,  a  withering  blight 
to  his  budding  hopes,  and  a  final  consummation 
to  his  foreboding  fears.  Pe  had  pressed  Melis 
sa,  perhaps  too  urgently,  to  a  declaration.  Had 
her  predilection  been  in  his  favor,  would  she 
have  hesitated  to  avow  it  ?  Her  parents  had  ad 
vised  her  to  relinquish  and  had  permitted  her  to 
retain  one  suitor,  nor  had  they  attempted  to  in 
fluence  or  direct  her  choice.  Was  it  not  evi 
dent,  then,  from  her  confused  hesitation  and  em 
barrassment,  when  solicited  to  discriminate  i^- 
en  the  subject,  that  her  ultimate  decision  would 
be  in  favor  of  Beau  man  ? 

While  Alonzo's  mind  was  thus  agitated,  he 
received  a  second  letter  from  his  friend  in  the 
neighborhood  of  Melissa.  He  read  the  follow 
ing  clause  therein  with  emotion  more  easily  to  be 
conceived  than  expressed  :  — 

*'  Melissa's  wedding  day   is  <:  ./.     I :: 

not  tell  you  that  Beauwan  is  to  be  the  hap/ 
of  tft#iffymrnea[  sacrifice. 
own  declaration.      lie  • 

b'.it  it  i$  cd  ':m. 


£0  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

doubtedly  however,  have  timely  notice,  as  a  guest* 
We  must  pQur  a  liberal  libation  upon  the  mystic  al 
tar ',  Alonzo,  and  tiui?ie  the  nuptial  gar  land  with 
•wreaths  of  joy.  Beauman  ought  to  devote  a  rich 
offering  to  so  valuable  a  prize.  He  has  been  here 
for  a  week,  and  departed  for  New- London  y  ester- 
day,  but  is  shortly  to  return." 

"  And  why  have  I  ever  doubted  this  event  ? 
fsaid  Alonzo.]  What  infatuation  hath  thus  led 
me  on  the  pursuit  of  fantastic  and  unreal  bliss  ? 
I  have  had,  it  is  true,  no  positive  assurance  that 
Melissa  would  favor  my  addresses.  But  why 
did  she  ever  receive  them  ?  Why  did  she  en- 
ehantingly  smile  upon  me  ?  Why  fascinate  the 
tender  powers  of  my  soul  by  that  winning  mild 
ness,  and  the  favorable  display  of  those  compli 
cated  and  superior  attractions  which  she  must 
have  known  were  irresistible  ?  Why  did  she  not 
spurn  me  from  her  confidence,  and  plainly,  tell 
xne  that  my  attentions  were  untimely  and  impro^ 
per  ? — And  now  she  would  have  me  dance  at 
tendance  to  her  decision,  in  favor  of  Beauman — - 
Insulting  ! — Let  Beauman  and  she  make,  as  they 
have  formed,  this  farcical  decision  ;  I  absolutely 
will  never  attend  it.- — But  stop  : — I  have  enga 
ged  to  see  her  at  an  appointed  time  ;  my  honor 
is  therefore  pledged  for  an  intt  rview  ;  it  must 
take  place.  !  shall  support  it  with  becoming  dig 
nity,  and  I  will  convince  Melissa  and  Beauman 
that  I  am  not  the-  dupe  of  their  caprices.  But  let 
rne  consider — What  has  Melissa  done  to  deserve 
censure  or  reproach-?  Her  brother  was  my  early 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  21 

friend— she  has  treated'  me  as  a  friend  to  her 
brother  She  was  unconscious  of  the  flame  which 
her  charms  had  kindled  in  my  bosom.  Her  evi 
dent  embarrassment  and  confusion  on  receiving 
my  declaration,  witnessed  her  surprise  and  pri 
or  attachment.  What  could  she  do  ?  To  save 
herself  the  pain  of  a  direct  denial  she  has  appoint 
ed  a  day  when  her  refusal  may  come  in  a  more 
delicate  and  formal  manner — and  I  must  meet 
it." 

At  the  appointed  day,  Alonzo  proceeded  to  the 
house  of  Melissa's  father,  where  he  arrived  late 
in  the  afternoon.  Melissa  had  retired  to  a  little 
summer  house  at  the  end  of  the  garden  ;  a  ser 
vant  conducted  Akmzo  thither.  She  was  dres 
sed  in  a  flowing  robe  of  white  muslin,  embroi 
dered  with  a  deep  fringe  lace.  Her  hair  hung 
loosely  upon  her  shoulders — she  was  contempla 
ting  a  bouquet  of  flowers  which  she  held  in  her 
hand.  Alouzo  fancied  she  never  appeared  so 
lovely.  She  arose  to  receive  him.  *  We  have 
been  expecting  )ou  some  time,  [said  Melissa, ] 
we  were  anxious  to  inform  you,  that  we  have  just 
received  a  Utter  from  my  brother,  in  which  he  de 
sires  us  to  present  you  his  most  friendly  respects, 
and  complains  of  your  not  writing  to  him  lately 
so  frequently  as  usual."  Alonzo  thanked  her 
for  the  information — said  that  business  had  pre 
vented  him— he  esteemed  him  as  his  roost  valued 
friend,  and  would  be  more  particular  in  future. 

*•  We  have  been  thronged  with  company  for  se-. 


22  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA* 

veral  days,  [said  Melissa] — once  a  year  my  father 
celebrates  his  birth  day,  when  we  are  honored 
with  so  numerous  a  company  of  uncles,  aunts, 
cousins,  nephews  and  nieces,  that  were  you  pre 
sent,  you  would  suppose  we  were  connected 
with  half  the  families  in  Connecticut. — The  last 
of  this  company  took  their  departure  yesterday, 
and  I  have  only  to  regret  that  I  have  for  nearly  a 
week,  been  prevented  from  visiting  my  favorite 
hill,  to  which  you  attended  me  when  you  was  last 
here.  It  is  much  improved  since  then  i  I  have 
had.  a  little  arbor  built  under  the  large  tree  on  its 
summit :  you  will  have  no  objection  to  view  it, 
Alonzo •?"  He  assured  her  he  accepted  the  invi 
tation  with  pleasure,  and  towards  evening  they 
resorted  to  the  place  and  seated  themselves  in  the 
arbor.  • 

It  was  the  beginning  of  autumn,  and  a  yellow 
hue  was  spread  over  the  fading  charms  of  nature. 
The  withering  forest  began  to  shed  its  decaying 
foliage,  which  the  light  gales  pursued  along  the 
russet  fields. — The  low  sun  extended  the  length.- 
en  ing  shadows  ;  curling  smoke  ascended  from 
the  surrounding  cottages.  ,A  thick  fog  crept  a- 
long  the  vallies,  a  grey  mist  hovered  over  the 
tops  of  the  mountains,  The  glassy  surface  of 
the  Sound  glittered  to  the  sun's  departing  ray. 
The  solemn  herds  lowed  in  monotonous' sym 
phony. — The  autumnal  insects  in  sympathetic 
ivaf tings,  plaintively  predicted  their  approach  ing 
fate, — '*  The  scene  is  changed  since  we  last  vis- 
itcd  this  place,  [said  Melissa;]  the  gay  charms 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA*  23 

of  summer  are  beginning  to  decay,  and  must  soon 
yield  their  splendors  to  the  rude  despoiling  hand 
of  winter." 

"  That  will  be  the  case,  (said  AJonzo)  before  I 
shall  have  the  pleasure  of  your  company  here  a- 
gain." 

Mel.  That  probably  may  be,  though  it  is  near 
ly  two  months  yet  to  winter. 

Al.  Great  changes  may  take  place  within  that 
time. 

Mel.  Yes,  changes  must  take  place ;  but  noth 
ing,  I  hope,  to  embitter  present  prospects. 

Al.  (Peevishly)  As  it  respects  yourself,  I  trust 
not,  madam. 

Mel.  (Tenderly)  And  I  sincerely  hope  not,  as 
it  respects  you,  Alonzo. 

Al.  That  wish — I  believe — is  vain. 

Mel.   Why  so  ominous  a  prediction  ? 

Al.  The  premises  from  which  it  is  drawn  are 
correct. 

Mel.  Your  feelings  accord  with  the  season, 
Alonzo  ;  you  are  melancholy.  Shall  we  return  ? 

Al.  T  ask  your  pardon,  madam  ;  I  know  I  am 
unsociable.  You  speak  of  returning — You  know 
the  occasion  of  my  being  here. 

Mel.  For  the  purpose  of  visiting  your  friend^ 
I  presume  ? 

Al.   And  no  other  ? 

(She  made  no  reply.) 

Al.  You  cannot  have  forgotten  your  own  ap 
pointment,  and  consequent  engagement  ? 

(She  nude  no  answer.) 


24  ALOtfZO  AND  MELISSA* 

Al.  I  know,  Melissa,  that  you  are  incapable  of 
duplicity  or  evasion.  I  have  promised  and  now 
repeat  the  declaration,  that  I  will  silently  submit 
to  your  decision.  This  you  have  engaged  to 
make,  and  this  is  the  time  you  have  appointed. 
The  pains  of  present  suspense  can  scarcely  be 
surpassed  by  the  pangs  of  disappointment.  On 
your  part  you  have  nothing  to  fear.  1  trust  you 
have  candidly  determined,  and  will  decide  expli 
citly. 

Mel.  (sighing)  I  am  pUced  in  an  exceedingly 
delicate  situation. 

Al.  I  know  you  are, — but  your  own  honor, 
your  own  peace,  require  that  you  should  extri 
cate  yourself  from  the  perplexing  embarrass 
ment. 

Mel.  I  am  sensible  they  do.  It  must — it  shall 
be  done. 

Al.  And  the  sooner  it  is  done  the  better, 

Mel.  That  I  am  convinced  of.  .  I  now  know 
that  I  have  been  in&dvertently  indiscreet.  I  have 
admitted  the  addresses  of  Reauman  and  yourself, 
without  calculating  or  expecting  the  consequen 
ces.  You  have  both  treated  me  honorably,  and 
\vith  respect.  You  are  both  on  equal  grounds 
as  to  your  character  and  standing  in  life.  With 
Beau  man  I  became  first  acquainted.  As  it  re 
lates  to  him,  some  new  arrangements  have  taken 
place  since  you  were  here,  which — — 

Al.  (interrupting  her,  with  emotion)  Of  those 
arrangements  I  a<n  acquainted 


AND  MrtISSA.  25 

Mel.  (surprised)  By  what  means  were  you  in 
formed  thereof? 

Al.  I  received  it  from  a  friend  in  your  neigh 
bourhood. 

(A  considerable  pause  ensued.) 

Al.  You  see,  Melissa,  I  am  prepared  for  the 
event. 

(She  was  silent.) 

Al.  1  have  mentioned  before,  that,  Whatever 
be  your  decision,  no  impropriety  can  attach  to> 
you.  I  might  not,  indeed,  from  various  circum 
stances,  and  from  the  information  I  possess,  I 
perhaps  should  not,  have  given  you  farther  trou 
ble  on  the  occasion,  had  it  not  been  from  your 
own  direction  and  appointment.  And  I  am  now 
willing  to  retire  without  further  explanation, 
without  giving  you  the  pain  of  an  express  decis 
ion,  if  you  think  the  measure  expedient.  Your 
declaration  can  only  be  a  matter  of  form,  the  con 
sequence  of  which  I  know,  and  my  proposit.on 
may  save  ypur  feelings. 

Mel.  No,  Alon2o  ;  my  reputation  depends  on 
rny  adherence  to  my  first  determination  ;  justice 
to  yourself  and  to  Beauman,  also  demand  it.  Af 
ter  what  has  passed,  I  should  be  considered  as 
acting  capriciously  and  inconsistently  should  I 
depart  from  it.  Beauman  will  be  here  to-mor 
row,  and 

Al.  To-morrow,  madam  ? 
Mel.  He  will   be   here   to-morrow,   and  you 
must  consent  to   stay    with  us  until  that  time  5 
matter  shall  then  be  decided, 
P 


25  ALONZO  AND  MElISSA'y 

Al.  I — yes — it  shall  be  as  you  say,  madau: 
Make  your  arrangements  as  you  please. 

Evening  had  now  spread  her  dusky  mantle  o- 
ver  the  face  of  nature.  The  stars  glistened  in 
the  sky.  The  breeze's  rustling  wing  was  in  the 
tree.  The  "  slitty  sound"  of  the  low  murmur-' 
ing  brook,  and  the  far  off  water  fall,  were  faintly' 
heard.  The  twinkling  fire  fly  arose  from  the 
surrounding  verdure  and  illuminated  the  air  with 
a  thousand  transient  gleams.  The  mingling  dis 
cordance  of  curs  and  watch -dogs  echoed  in  the 
distant  village,  from  whence  the  frequent  lights 
darted  their  palely  lustre  through  the  gloom. — 
The  solitary  whipperwjlls  stationed  themselves  a* 
Io.:g  the  woody  glens,  the  groves  and  rocky  pas 
tures,  and  sung  a  requiem  to  departed  summer. 
A  dark  cloud  was  rising  in  the  west,  across 
whose  gloomy  front  the  vivid  lightning  bent  itsf 
forky  spires. 

Alonzo  and  Melissa  moved  slowly  to  the  vil- 
Lu!;e  ;  she  appeared  enraptured  with  the  melan- 
chnK  splendors  of  the  evening,  but  the  other  sub 
ject  engaged  the  mental  attention  of  Alonzo. 

Beau  man  arrived  the  next  day.  He  gave  his 
hrnul  to  Alonzo  with  seeming  warmth  of  friend 
ship.  If  it  was  reciprocated,  it  must  fcave  been 
aff«  ct.-d.  There  was  no  alteration  in  the  man 
ners  and  conversation  of  Melissa  ;  her  conversa 
tion  as  usual,  was  sprightly  and  interesting.  Af 
ter  dinner  she  retired,  and  her  father  requested 
Alonzo  and  Beauman  to  withdraw  with  him  to  a 


ALONZO   AND   MELISSA.  27 

private   room.     After  they  were  seated  the  old 
gentleman  thus  addressed  them  : —        ^ 

"  I  have  called  you  here.,  gentlemen,  to  per. 
form  mjUluty  as  a  parent  to  my  daughter,  and  as 
a  friend  to  you.  You  are  both  suitors  to  Melis 
sa  ;  while  your  addresses  were  merely  formal, 
they  were  innocent  ;  but  when  they  become  se 
rious  they  were  dangerous.  Your  pretensions  I 
Consider  equal,  and  between  honorable  preten 
ders,  who  are  worthy  of  my  daughter,  I  shall  not 
attempt  to  influence  her  choice.  That  choice, 
however,  can  rest  only  on  one  :  she  has  enga 
ged  to  decide  between  you.  I  am  come,  to  make 
in  her  name,  this  decision. — The  following  are 
my  terms  :  No  quarrel  or  difficulty  shall  arise 
between  you,  gentlemen,  in  consequence  of  her 
determination.  Nothing  shall  go  abroad  res 
pecting  the  affair  ;  it  shall  be  ended  under  my 
roof.  As  soon  as  I  have  pronounced  her  decla 
ration,  you  shall  both  depart  and  absent  my 
house,  for,  at  least,  twq  weeks,  as  it  would  be 
improper  for  my  daughter  to  see  either  of  you  at 
present — after  that  period  I  shall  be  happy  to  re 
ceive  your  visits."  Alonzo  and  Beau  man  pledg 
ed  their  honor  to  abide  explicitly  by  these  injunc 
tions.  Her  father  then  observed — "  This,  gen- 
tlemen,  is  all  I  require.-  1  have  observed  that  I 
considered  your  pretensions  equal- — so  has  my 
daughter  treated  them.  You  have  both  made 
professions  to  her  :  she  has  appointed  a  time  to 
answer  you.  That  time  has  now  arrived,  and  I 
now  inform  you  that  she  has  decided  in  favor  of 
— Alonzo." 


8  AlOttSO  ANp  MELISSA, 


The  declaration  of  Melissa's  father  burst  upon 
the  mental  powers  of  Beau  man,  like  a  sudden  and 
tremendous  clap  of  thunder  on  the  deep  and  sol- 
cmn  silence  of  night.  Unaccustomed  to  disap 
pointment,  he  had  calculated  on  success.  His 
addresses  to  the  ladies  had  ever  been  honorably 
received, 

Melissa  was  the  first  whose  charms  were  ca 
pable  of  rendering  them  sincere.  He  was  not 
ignorant  of  Alonzo's  attention  to  her  ;  it  gave 
him  however  buv  little  uneasiness.  He  believed 
that  his  superior  qualifications  would  eclipse  the 
pretensions  of  his  rival.  He  considered  himself 
a  connoisseur  in  character,  especially  in  the  char- 
^cter  of  the  ladies.  He  conformed  to  their  taste  ; 
lie  flattered  their  foibles  and  obsequiously  bowed 
to  the  mimitia  of  female  volatility,  He  consid 
ered  himself  skilled  in  the  language  of  the  heart  • 
and  he  trusted.  that  from  his  pre-eminent  powers 
in  the  science  of  affection,  he  had  only  to  see,  to 
sue  and  to  conquer.  He  had  frankly  offered  his 
hand  to  Melissa,  and  pressed  her  for  a  decisive 
answer.  This  from  time  to  time  she  suspended, 
and  finally  appointed  a  day  to  give  him  and  Alon- 
zo  a  determinate  answer,  though  neither  knew 
ihe  arrangements  made  with  the  other. 

Finding,  however,  the  dilemma  in  which  she 

placid,    she  had   previously   consulted  her 

paren  ;s.     Her  father  had   no  objection   to   her 

choosing  between  two  persons  of  equal  claims:  to- 

c   an^  reputation  ;    this  choice  she 


AtONZG  AND  MELISSA,  f& 

inade,  and  her   lather  was  considered  the  most 
pr<  'per  person  to  pi  onounce  it. 

When  Beauinan  had  urged  his, suit  to  Melis* 
sa,  he  supposed  'hat  her  hesitations,  delays  and 
suspensions,  vere  oiily  the  effects  of  maiden  dif- 
•fj< '",  'ice  and  timidity.  He  had  no  suspicions  of 
her  ultimately  rejve  i;-g  it  ;  and  when  she  final- 
1\  named  the  day  of  decision,  he  was  confident 
she  wou'd  decide  in  his  favor.  These  senti 
ments  he  had  communicated  to  the  person  who 
had  written  to  Alonzo,  intimating  that  Melissa 
had  fixed  a  time  which  was  to  crown  his  happi 
est  wishes. 

He  had  listened,  therefore,  attentively  to  the 
Words  of  Melissa's  father,  momentarily  expect 
ing  to  hear  himself  declared  the  favorite  choice  of 
the  fair. 

What  then  must  have  been  his  disappointment 
when  the  name  of  Alonzo  was  pronounced  in 
stead  of  his  own  !  The  highly  finished  stene  of 
pk  asurt  and  future  prosperity  which  his  ardent 
imagination  hid  depicted^  ^ad  vanished  in  a  mo* 
mentv  1  he  rain-bow  glories  which  gilded  his 
youthful  horiflon,  had  faded  in  an  instant  —the 
bright  sun  of  his  early  hopes,  had  set  in  mourn 
ful  darkness.  The  summons  of  death  would  not 
have  been  more  unexpected,  or  more  shocking 
to  his  imagination* 

Very  different  were  the  sensations  which  in 
spired  the  bosom  of  Alonzo.  ^He  had  not  even 
calculated  on  a  decision  in  his  own  favor.  He 
bclk'vxJ  that  Beau  man  would  be  the  choice  of 


£0  AIONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

Melissa.  She  had  told  him  that  the  form  of  der 
cision  was  necessary  to  save  appearances — with 
this  form  he  complied  because  she  dc  ired  it, 
not  because  he  expected  the  result  would  be  in 
his  favor,  He  had  not  therefore  attended  to  the 
words  of  Melissa's  father  with  that  eagerness 
which  favorable  anticipations  coma  only  produce. 
Bul^when  his  name  w  .s  mentioned — when  he 
found  he  was  the  choice — thr  happy  favorite  of 
Melissa's  affection — every  tender  passion  of  his 
soul  became  interested,  and  was  suddenly  arous 
ed  to  the  refinements  of  sensibility .  ,  Like  an  e- 
lectric  shock,  it  reanimated  his  whole  frame,  and 
vibrated  every  nerve  of  his  heart.  The  glooms 
which  hun^-about  his  mind  were  dissipated,  and 
the  bright  morning  of  joy  broke  in  upon  his  soul. 

Thus  were  the  expectations  of  Alonzo  and 
Beauman  disappointed — how  differently  the  se-r 
quei  has  shewn. 

Melissa's  father  retired  immediately  after  pro 
nouncing  ihe  declaration  ;  the  two  young  gen 
tlemen,  also,  soon  after  withdrew.  Alonzo  saw 
the  tempest  which  tore  the  bosoni  of  his  rival, 
and  he  pitied  him  from  his  heart. 

A  fortnight  passed,  and  Alonzo  felt  all  that 
anxiety  and  impatience  which  a  separation  from 
a  beloved  object  can  produce.  He  framed  a  thou 
sand  excuses  to  visit  Melissa,  yet  he  feared  a  vis 
it  might  be  premature.  He  was,  however,  ne 
cessitated  to  make  a  journey  to  a  distant  part  of 
the  country,  after  which  Le  resolved  to  see  Me 
lissa.  He  performed  his  business,  and  was  re- 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  31 

turning.  It  was  toward  evening,  and  the  day 
hud  been  uncommonly  sultry  for  the  autumnal 
season.  A  rising  shower  blackened  the  western 
hemisphere  ;  the  dark  vapor  ascended  in  folding 
ridges,  a»  d  the  thunder  rolled  at  a  distance.  A- 
lonzo  saw  he  should  be  overtaken.  He  discov 
ered  an  elegant  seat  about  one  huiKlred  yards  dis^ 
tant  from  the  road  ;  thither  he  hastened  to  gaia 
shelter  from  the  approaching  storm.  The  own* 
cr  of  the  mansion  rmt  him  at  the  door,  politely 
invited  him  to  alight  and  walk  in,  while  a  servant 
stood  ready  to  rake  his  horse.  He  was  ushered 
into  a  large  room  neatly  furnished,  where  the 
family  and  several  young  ladies  were  sitting.  As 
Alonzo  glanced  his  eyes  hastily  around  the  room, 
he  thought  he  recognized  a  familiar  countenance. 
A  hurried  succession  of  confused  ideas  for  a  mo 
ment,  crossed  his  recollection. — In  a  moment  he 
discovered  that  it  was  Melissa.  By  this  unex 
pected  meeting  they  were  both  completely  em 
barrassed.  Melissa,  however,  arose,  and  in  rath 
er  a  confused  manner,  introduced  Alonzo,  as  the 
classmate  of  her  brother,  to  the  family  of  Mr. 
Simpson,  and  the  company. 

The  rain  continued  most  part  of  the  afternoon, 
Alonzo  was  invited,  and  consented  to  stay  all 
night.  A  moon  light  evening  succeeded  the 
shower,  which  invited  the  young  people  to  walk 
in  an  adjoining  garden.  Melissa  told  Alonzo 
that  Mr.  Simpson  was  a  distant  relative  of  her 
father  ;  his  family  consisted  of  his  wife,  two  a- 
mhbte  daughters.,  not  far  from  Melissa's  age,  and 


3§  AtONZO  ANI)  MELISSA* 

one  son,  framed  William,  about  seventeen  years 
old.  She  had  been  invited  there  to  pass  a  week 
and  expected  to  return  within  two  days.  A\  d 
she  added,  smiling,  perhaps,  Alonzo,  we  my* 
have  an  opportunity  once  more  to  visit  the  bovv 
er  on  my  prospect  hill,  before  winter  entirely  des 
troys  the  remaining  beanies  of  the  summer  '* 
Alonzo  felt  all  the  force  of  the  remark.  He  re* 
collected  the  conversation  whe:  they  were  last 
at  the  place  she  mentioned  ;  and  he  well  remem 
bered  his  feelings  on  that  occasion. 

*•  Great  changes,  indeed,  (he  replied)  have  ta 
ken  place  since  we  were  last  there  ;  that  they  are 
productive  of  unexpected  and  unexampled  hap 
piness  to  me,  is  due,  M  Ussa,  to  yon  alone." — 
Alonzo  departed  the  next  morning,  appointing 
the  next  week  to  visit  Melissa  .at  her' father's 
house. 

Thus  were  the  obstacles  removed  which  pre« 
sented'a  barrier  to  the  united  wishes  of  Alonzo 
and  Melissa.  They  had  not,  it  is  true,  been  sep 
arated  by  wide  seas,  unfeeling  parents,  or  the 
rigorous  laws  of  war  ;  but  troubles,  vexations, 
doubts  and  difficulties,  had  thus  far  attended 
them,  which  had  now  disappeared,  and  they  cal 
culated  on  no  unpropitious  event  which  might 
thwart  their  future  union.  All  the  time  that  A- 
lonzo  could  spare  from  his  studies  was  devoted 
to  Melissa,  and  their  parents  began  to  calculate 
on  joining  their  hands  as  soon  as  Alonzo's  pro* 
Sessional  term  of  study  was  completed. 

The  troubles  which  gave  rise  to  the  dis 


ALONZO  &ND  MELISSA.  ,5$ 

ration  of  England  from  America  had  already  com 
menced,  which  broke  out  the  ensuing  spring  in 
to  actual  hostilities,  by  the  battle  at  Lexington, 
followed  soon  after  by  the  battle  at  Bunker  HilL 
The  panic  and  general  bustle  which  took  place 
in  America  on  these  events,  is  yet  well  remem 
bered  by  many.  They  were  not  calculated  to 
impress  the  mind  of  Melissa  with  the  most  plea 
sing  sensations.  She  foresaw  that  the  burden  of 
the  war  must  rest  on  the  American  youth,  and 
she  trembled  in  anticipation  for  the  fate  of  Alon- 
zo.  He,  with  others,  should  the  war  continue, 
must  take  the  field,  in  defence  of  his  country- 
The  effects  of  such  a  separation  were  dubious 
and  gloomy.  Alonao  and  she  frequently  discour 
sed,  and  they  agreed  to  form  the  mystic  union 
previous  to  any  wide  separation. 

One  event  tended  to  hasten  this  resolution,, 
The  attorney  in  whose  office  Alonzo  was  clerk , 
received  a  commission  in  the  new  faised  Ameri 
can  army,  and  marched  to  the  lines  near  Boston. 
His  business  was  therefore  suspended,  and  Alon 
ao  returned  to  the  house  of  his  father.  He  con 
sidered  that  he  could  not  long  remain  a  mere 
spectator  of  the  contest,  and  that  it  might  soon 
be  his  duty  to  take  the  field  ;  he  therefore  con 
cluded  it  best  to  hasten  his  marriage  with  Melis 
sa.  She  consented  to  the  proposition,  and  their 
parents  made  the  necessary  arrangements  for  the 
event.  They  had  even  fixed  upon  the  place 
which  was  to  be  the  future  residence  of  this  hup* 

py  counte*     It  was    a  pleasantly  situated  village, 

E 


J4  AIONZO  AND  MLJtlSSA. 

surrounded  by  rugged  elevations,  which  gave  an 
air  of  serenity  and  seclusion  to  the  valley  they 
encircled.  On  the  south  arose  a  spacious  hill, 
which  was  ascended  by  a  gradual  acclivity  ;  its 
sides  and  summit  interspersed  with  orchards,  ar 
bors  and  cultivated  fields.  On  the  west,  forests 
unevenly  lifted  their  rude  heads,  with  here  and 
there  a  solitary  field,  newly  cleared,  and  thinly 
scattered  with  cottages.  To  the  east,  the  eye 
extended  over  a  soil,  at  one  time  swelling1  into 
craggy  elevations,  and  at  another  spreading  it- 
self  into  vales  of  the  most  enchanting  verdure. 
To  the  north  it  extended  over  a  vast  succession 
of  mountains,  wooded  to  their  summits,  and 
throwing  their  shadows  over  intervales  of  equal 
wilderness,  till  at  length  it  \vas  arrested  in  its  ex 
cursions  by  the  blue  mists  which  hovered  over 
mountains  more  grand,  majestic  and  lofty.*-*- A 
rivulet  which  rushed  from  the  hills,  formed  a  lit 
tle  lake  on  the  borders  of  the  village,  which  beau 
tifully  reflected  the  cottages  from  its  transparent 
bosom  Amidst  a  cluster  of  locusts  and  weep 
ing  willows,  rose  the  spire  of  the  church,  in  the 
tingarnished  decency  of  Sunday  neatness.  Fields, 
gardens,  meadows  and  pastures  were  spread  a- 
round  the  valley,  and  on  the  sides  of  the  declivi 
ties,  yielding  in  their  season  the  rich  flowers, 
fruits  and  foliage  of  spring,  summer  and  autumn. 
The  inhabitants  of  this  modern  Avernum  were 
mostly  farmers.  They  were  mild,  sociable,  mor- 

*  .->ome  who  read   tins  description  vail  readily  recogwse 
the  vilJatre  here  described.. 


ALONZO   AND   MELISSA*  5£ 

al  and  diligent:  The  produce  of  their  own  .flocks 
and  fields,  gave  them  most  of  their  food  an<J  clo 
thing.  To  dissipation  they  were  strangers,  and 
the  luxuries  of  their  tables  were  few. 

Such  was  the  place  for  the  residence  of  AJon- 
zo  aud  Melissa.  They  had  visited  the  spot,  and 
were' enraptured  with  its  pensive,  romantic  beau 
ties.  A  site  was  marked  out  whereon  to  erect 
their  family  mansion.  It  was  on  a  little  eminence 
which  sloped  gradually  to  the  lake,  in  the  most 
pleasant  part  of  the  village.  "  Here,  (said  Alon- 
zo,  one  day  to  Melissa)  will  we  pass  our  days  in 
all  that  felicity  of  mind  which  the  chequered 
scenes  of  life  admit.  In  the  spring  we  will  rove 
among  the  flowers.  In  summer  we  will  gather 
strawberries  in  yonder  fields,  or  whortleberries' 
from  the  adjacent  shrubbery.  The  breezes  of 
fragrant  morning,  and  the  sighs  of  the  evening 
gale,  will  be  mingled  with  the  songs  of  the  thou 
sand  various  birds  which  frequent  the  surround 
ing  groves.  We  will  gather  the  bending  fruits 
of  autumn,  ami  we  will  listen  to  the  hoarse  voice 
of  winter,  its  whistling  winds,  its  driving  snow, 
and  rattling  hail,  with  delight:" 

The  bright  gems  of  joy  glistened  in  the  eyes 
of  Melissa.  With  Alonzo  she  anticipated  ap 
proaching  happiness,  and  her  bosom  beat  in  rap 
turous  unison. 

Winter  came  on  ;  it  rapidly  passed  away — * 
Spring  advanced,,  and  the  marriage  day  was  ap 
pointed. 

The  spring  opened  with  the  din  of  prepara- 


36  ALQN2O  AND  MELISSA'* 

tion  throughout  America  for  defensive  war.  It 
now  was  found  that  vigorous  measures  must  be 
pursued  to  oppose  the  torrent  which  was  prepar 
ing  to  overwhelm  the  Colonies,  which  had  now 
been  dissevered  from  the  British  empire,  by  the 
declaration  of  independence.  The  continental 
army  was  now  raising,  and  great  numbers  of  A* 
merican  youth  volunteered  in  the  service  of  their 
country.  A  large  army  of  reinforcement  was 
soon  expected  from  England,  to  land  on  our 
shores,  and  c  the  confused  noise  of  the  warriors 
and  garments  rolled  in  blood,"  were  already  an 
ticipated. 

Alonzo  had  received  a  commission  in  a  regi 
ment  of  militia,  and  was  pressed  by  several  young 
gentlemen  of  his  acquaintance,  who  had  entered 
the  army,  to  join  it  also.  He  had  an  excuse — . 
His  father  was  a  man  in  extensive  business,  was 
considerably  past  the  prime  *of  life,  had  a  nurru 
foer  of  agents  and  clerks  under  him,  but  began  to 
-grow  unable  to  attend  to  the  various  and  burthen- 
some  duties  and  demands  of  a  mercantile  life. 

Alonzo  was  his  only  son  ;  his  assistance  there 
fore  became  necessary  until,  at  least,  his  father 
could  bring  his  business  to  a  close,  which  he  was 
now  about  to  effect.  Alonzo  stated  these  facts 
to  his  friends  ;  told  them  that  on  every  occasion 
he  should  be  ready  to  fly  to  the  post  of  danger 
when  his  country  was  invaded,  and  that  as  soon 
as  his  father's  aftairs  should  be  settled,  he  would, 
if  necessary,  willingly  joiivthe  army. 

The  day  now  rapidly  approached  when 


ALON20  AND  MELISSA*  37* 

20  was  to  make  Melissa  his  own.  Preparations 
for  the  hymeneal  ceremony  were  making,  and 
invitations  had  already  gone  abroad,  Edgar,  the 
brother  of  Melissa,  had  entered  the  army  in  the 
capacity  of  chaplain.  He  was  &oon  expected 
home,  where  he  intended  to  tarry  until  the  con 
summation  of  the  nuptials,  before  he  set  out  for 
the  camp.  Letters  recently  received  from  him, 
informed  that  he  expected  to  be  at  his  father's  in 
three  or  four  days. 

About  three  wt:eks  previous  to  the  appointed 
marriage  day,  Alonzo  and  Melissa  one  afternoon 
rode  out  to  the  village  which  had  been  chosen 
for  their  future  residence.  Their  carriage  stopt 
at  the  only  inn  in  the  place,  and  from  thence  they 
walked  around  this  modern  Vacluse,  charmed 
with  the  secluded  beauties  of  its  situation.  They 
passed  a  little  time  at  the  spot  selected  for  their 
habitation  ;  they  projected  the  structure  of  the 
buildings,  planned  the  gardens,  the  artificial 
groves,  the  walks,  the  mead,  the  fountains  and 
the  green  retreat  of  the  summer  house,  and  they 
already  saw,  in  anticipation,  the  various  domes.- 
tic  blessings  and  felicities  with  which  they  were 
to  be  surrounded. 

They  took  tea  at  the  inn,  and  prepared  to  re 
turn.  It  was  the  latter  end  of  the  month  of  May, 
and  nature  was  adorned  in  the  bridal  ornaments 
of  spring  ;  the  sun  was  sunk  behind  the  groves, 
which  cast  their  sombre  shades  over  the  valley, 
while  the  retiring  beams  of  day  adorned  the  dis 
tant  eastern  eminences  with  yellow  lubtre,  The 


38  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

birds  sung  melodiously  in  the  groves,  the  air  was 
freshened  by  light  western  breezes,  bearing  upon 
their  wings  all  the  entrancing  odors  of  the  season. 
Around  the  horizon,  electric  clouds-  raised  their 
brazen  summits,  bassed  in  the  black  vapor  of  ap 
proaching  night. 

They  slowly  ascended  the  hill  south  of  the 
town,  where  they  paused  a  few  moments  to  en 
joy  the  splendors  of  the  evening  scene  This 
hill,  which  commanded  a  prosptct  of  all  the  sur 
rounding  country,  the  distant  Sound,  and  tht  ad 
jacent  towns  and  villages  presented  to  the-  eye, 
on  a  single  view,  perhaps  one  of  the  most  pictur 
esque  draperies  painted  by  nature.  Aloi.zo  at 
tended  Melissa  to  her  father's,  and  the  next  day 
returned  home. 

His  father  had  been  absent  for  three  or  four 
days  to  one  of  the  commercial  seaports,  on  busi 
ness  with  some  merchants  with  whom  he  was 
connected  in  trade.  He  returned  the  next  day 
after  Alonzo  got  home  ; — his  aspect  and  his  con- 
versation  were  marked  with  an  assumed  and  un 
meaning  cheerfulness.  At  supper  he  ate  noth 
ing,  discoursed  much,  but  in  an  unconnected  and 
hurried  manner,  interrupted  by  long  pauses,  in 
which  he  appeared  to  be  buried  in  contempla 
tion. 

After  supper  he  asked  Alonzo  if  it  were  not 
possible  that  his  marriage  with  Melissa  could  be 
Consummated  within  a  few  days.  Alonzo,  start 
led  at  so  unexpected  a  question,  replied,  that 
such  a  proposal  would  be 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA?  39 

ry,  perhaps  improper  ;  besides,  when  Melissa 
had  fixed  the  day,  she  mentioned  that  she  had  aa 
uncic  who  lived  near  Charleston,  in  South  Caro* 
lina,  whose  daughter  was  to  pass  the  summer 
with  Melissa,  and  tyas  expected  to  arrive  before 
the  appointed  day.  It  would,  he  said,  be  a  deli 
cate  point  for  him  to  request  her  to  anticipate  the 
nuptials,  unless  he  could  give  some  cogent  rea 
sons  for  so  doing,  and  at  present  he  was  not  ap 
prised  that  any  such  existed.  His  father,  after  a 
few  moments  hesitation,  answered,  u  I  have  rea 
sons,  which,  when  told" — here  he  stopped,  sud 
denly  arose,  hastily  walked  the  room  in  much 
visible  agony  of  mind,  and  then  retired  to  his 
chamber. 

Alonzo  and  his  mother  were  much  amazed  at 
so  strange  a  proceeding.  They  could  form  no- 
conjecture  of  its  cause  or  its  consequence.  A- 
lonzo  passed  a  sleepless  night.  His  father's 
si u racers  were  interrupted  He  would  frequent 
ly  start  up  in  the  bed  then  sink  in  restless  sleep, 
wiih  incoherent  muttering*,  and  plaintive  moans. 
In  the  morning,  when  he  appeared  at  breakfast, 
his  countenance  wore  the  marks  of  dejection  and 
anguish. 

He  scarcely  spoke  a  word,  and  after  the  table 
was  removed,  he  ordered  all  to  withdraw  except 
his  wife  and  Alonzo,  when,  with  emotions  that 
spoke  the  painful  feelings  of  his  bosom,  he  thus 
addressed  them  : 

"For  more  than  forty  years  I  have  toiled  ear* 
ly  and  late  to  acquire  independence  and  ease  for 


40  ALO^ZO  AtfD  MELISSA. 


myself  and  my  family.  To  accomplish  this.  1 
became  connected  with  some  English  importing 
merchants  in  a  seaport  town,  and  went  largely 
into  the  English  trade.  Success  crowned  our 
endeavors  ;  on  balancing  cfiir  accounts  two  years 
ago,  we  found  that  our  expectations  were  an- 
swered,  and  that  we  were  now  sufficiently  weal- 
thy  to  close  business,  which  some  proposed  to 
do  ;  it  was,  however,  agreed  to  make  one  effort 
more,  as  some  favorable  circumstances  appeared 
to  offer,  in  which  we  adventured  very  largely,  on 
a  fair  calculation  of  liberal  and  extensive  pro 
ceeds. 

"  Before  returns  could  be  made,  the  war  came 
on,  embarrassments  ensued,  ana  by  indubitable 
intelligence  lately  received,  we  find  that  our  pro 
perty  in  England  has  been  sequestered  ;  five  of 
our  ships,  laden  with  English  goods,  lying  in 
English  harbors,  and  just  ready  to  sail  for  Amer 
ica,  have  been  seized  as  lawful  prizes.  Added 
to  this,  three  vessels  from  the  indies,  Inden  with 
Island  produce,  have  been  taken  on  their  home- 
ward  bound  voyage,  and  one  lost  on  her  return 
from  Holland.  This  wreck  of  fortune  I  might 
have  survived,  had  I  to  sustain  onh  my  equal 
dividend  of  the  loss  ;  but  of  the  merchants  with 
whom  I  have  been  connected,  not  one  remains  to 
share  the  fate  of  the  event  ;  all  have  absconded 
or  secreted  themselves.  To  Attempt  to  com 
pound  with  my  creditors  would  be  of  little  av?;il, 
my  whole  fortune  will  not  pay  one  fourth  of  the 
debts,  so  that  compound  or  not,  the  consequent 
^o  n:c  is  inevitably  ruin. 


ALONZO   AND  MELISSA.  4l 

"  To  abscond  would  not  secure  me,  as  most 
of  my  remaining  property  is  vested  in  real  estate. 
And  even  if  it  would,  I  could  not  consent  to  it  - 
I  could  not  consent  to  banish  myself  from  my 
country  ;  to  flee  like  a  felon,  to  skulk  from  socie 
ty  with  the  base  view  of  defrauding  my  creditors,. 
No,  I  have  lived  honestly,  and  honestly  will  I 
die.  By  fair  application  and  long  industry  my 
wealth  has  been  obtained,  and  it  shall  never  just- 
ly  be  said,  that  the  reputation  of  my  latter  days 
was  stained  with  acts  of  baseness  and  meanness* 
— -I  have  notified  and  procured  a  meeting  of  the 
creditors,  and  have  laid  the  matters  before  them. 
Some  appeared  favorable  to  me  ;  others  insinua 
ted  that  we  were  all  connected  in  fraudulent  de 
signs,  to  swindle  our  creditors.  This  I  repelled 
with  becoming  spirit,  and  was  in  consequence 
threatened  with  immediate  prosecution.  What 
ever  may  be  the  event,  I  had  some  hopes  that 
your  happiness,  Alonzo,  might  yet  be  secured.—* 
Hence  I  proposed  your  union  with  Melissa,  be- 
fore  our  misfortunes  should  be  promulgated. — 
Your  parents  are  old  ;  a  little  will  serve  the  resi 
due  of  their  days.  With  your  acquirements  you 
may  make  your  way  in  life.  I  shall  have  no  pro 
perty  to  give  you,  but  I  would  still  wish  you  to 
secure  that  which  you  prize  far  above,  and  with 
out  which,  both  honors  and  emoluments  are  un 
important  and  worthless." 

JLt  this  moment  a  loud  rap  at  the  door  inter- 
nipted  the  discourse,  and  three  men  were  usher- 
cd  in,  which  proved  to  be  the  sheriff  and  his  at- 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA* 

.pendants,  sent  by  the  more  inexorable  creditors 
of  Alonzo's  father  and  company,  to  let' el  on  the 
property  of  the  former,  which  orders  the>  faith 
fully  executed,  by  seizing  the  lands,  tenements 
and  furniture,  and  finally  arresting  the  body  of 
the  old  gentleman,  which  was  soon  released  by 
his  friendly  neighbors  becoming  bail  for  his  ap 
pearance  ;  but  the  property  was  soon  after  soid 
at  public  vendue,  at  less  than  half  its  value,  and 
Alonzo's  father  and  mother  were  compelled  to  a- 
bandon  the  premises,  and  take  shelter  in  a  little 
hut,  belonging  to  a  neighboring  farmer,  \\\y  and 
temporarily  furnished  by  the  gratuitous  liberality 
of  a  few  friends. 

We  will  not  stop  the  reader  to  moralize  on  this 
disastrous  event.  The  feelhigs  of  the  fainilv  can 
better  be  conceived  than  detailed  Hurled  in  a 
moment  from  the  lofty  summit  of  affluence  to  the 
low  and  barren  vale  of  poverty  !  Philosophy  c*me 
to  the  aid  of  the  parents,  but  who  can  realize  the 
feelings  of  the  son  !  Thus  sudclenh  cut  short  of 
his  prospects,  not  only  of  future  independence, 
but  even  of  support,  what  would  be  the  event  of 
his  suit  to  Melissa,  and  stipulated  marriage  ? 
Was  it  not  probable  that  her  father  would  now 
cancel  the  contract  ?  Could  she  consent  to  be 
his  wife  in  his  present  penurious  situation  ?  And 
indeed,  could  he  himself,  consent  to  make  her  Itis 
wife,  to  make  her  miserable  ? 

In  this  agitated  frame  of  mind  he  receivti 
letter  from  his  friend  in  Melissa's  neighborho< 
requesting  Mm  to  oeme  immediately  to  his  house. 


ALONZO  AND  MPXISE^, 

whither  lie  repaired  the  following  day.  This 
person  had  ever  been  the  unchanging  friend  of 
Alonzo  ;  he  had  heard  of  the  misfortunes  of  his 
family,  and  he  deeply  sympathized  in  his  distress. 
He  had  lately  married  and  settled  in  life  ; — his 
jiame  was  Vincent. 

When  Alonzo  arrived  at  the  ho?ise  of  his 
friend,  he  was  received  with  the  same  disinter 
ested  ardor  he  ever  had  been  in  the  day  of  his 
most  unbounded  prosperity.  After  being  seated, 
Vincent  told  him  that  the  occasion  of  his  send 
ing  for  him  was  to  propose  the  adoption,  of  cer 
tain  measures  which  he  doubted  not  might  be 
considered  highly  beneficial  as  it  respected  his  fu 
ture  peace  and  happiness.  "  Your  famhy  mis- 
fortunes  (continued  Vincent)  have  reached  the 
ears  of  Melissa's  father.  I  know  the  old  gentle 
man  too  well  to  believe  he  will  consent  to  receive 
you  as  his  son-in-law,  under  your  present  em 
barrassments.  Money  is  the  God  to  which  he 
implicitly  bows.  The  case  is  difficult,  but  not 
Insurmountable.  You  must  first  see  Melissa  ; 
she  is  now  in  the  next  room  ;  I  will  introduce 
you  in  ;  converse  with  her,  after  which  I  will  lay 
my  plan  before  you." 

Alonzo  entered  the  room  ;  Melissa  was  sitting 
by  a  window  which  looked  irto  a  pleasant  gar 
den,  and  over  verdant  meadows,  whose  tall  grass 
waved  to  the  evening  breeze.  Farther  on,  low 
;iec  spread  their  umbrageous  thickets,  where 
thf  dusky  shadows  of  night  had  begun  to  asset;: 
blc.  On  high  hills  beyond,  the  tops  of  lofty 


44  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

ests,  majestically  moved  by  the  billowy  gales, 
caught  the  sun's  last  ray.  Fleecy  summer  clouds 
hovered  around  the  verge  of  the  western  horizon, 
spangled  with  silvery  tints  or  fringed  with  the 
gold  of  even. 

A  mournfully  murmuring  rivulet  purled  at  a 
little  distance  from  the  garden,  on  the  borders  of 
a  small  grove,  from  whence  the  American  wild 
clove  wafted  her  sympathetic  moaning  to  the  ear 
of  Melissa  She  sat  leaning  on  a  small  table  by 
the  window,  which  was  thrown  up.  Her  atten 
tion  was  fixed.  She  did  not  perceive  Vincent 
and  Alonzo  as  they  entered.  They  advanced  to 
wards  her.  She  turned,  started,  and  arose.  With 
a  melracholy  smile,  and  tremulous  voice,  "  I  sup. 
posed  (she  said)  that  it  was  Mrs.  Vincent  who 
-was  approaching,  as  she  has  just  left  the  room." 
Her  countenance  appeared  dejected,  lyhich  on 
seeing  Alonzo,  lighted  up  into  a  languid  spright- 
liness.  It  was  evident  she  had  been  weeping. 

Vincent  retired  and  Alonzo  and  Melissa  seat 
ed  themselves  by  the  window.  "  I  have  broken 
in  upon  your  solitude,  perhaps,  too  unseasona 
bly  (said  Alonzo)  ;  it  is,  however,  the  fault  of 
Vincent,  he  invited  me  to  walk  into  the  room, 
but  did  not  inform  me  that  you  were  alone." — 
<*  Your  presence  was  sudden  and  unexpected, 
but  not  unseasonable,  (replied  Melissa.)  I  hope 
that  you  did  not  consider  any  formality  necessa 
ry  in  your  visits,  Alonzo  ?" 

Alonzo.  I  once  did  not  think  so.  Now  I 
inow  not  whdt  to  think — I  know  not  how  to  act. 


AXON20  AND  MELISSA.  45 

You  have  heard  of  the  misfortunes  of  my  father's 
family,  Melissa  ? 

Melissa,  Yes.  I  have  heard  the  circumstan 
ces  attending  that  event,  an  event  in  which  no 
one  could  be  more  deeply  interested^  except  the 
immediate  sufferers,  than  myself. 

Al.  Your  father  is  also  acquainted  with  my 
present  situation  ? 

Mel.  He  is. 

Al.  How  did  he  receive  the  intelligence  ? 

Mel.   With  deep  regret.      « 

Al.  And  forbade  you  to  admit  my  addresses 
any  longer  ? 

Mel.  No.     Not  absolutely. 

AL  If  even  an  unqualified  or  indirect  manner, 
it  is  proper  I  should  know  it. 

Mel.  It  certainly  is.  Soon  after  \ve  received 
the  intelligence  of  your  family  misfortunes,  my 
father  came  into  the  room  where  I  was  sitting, 
<v  Melissa,  (said  he)  your  conduct  has  ever  been 
that  of  a  dutiful  child  ;  mine  of  an  indulgent  pa- 
rent.  My  first,  my  ultimate  wish,  is  to  see  my 
children,  when  settled  in  life,  happy  and  honora 
bly  respected.  For  this  purpose,  I  have  bestow, 
cd  on  them  a  proper  education,  and  design  suita 
bly  to  apportion  my  property  between  them.  On 
their  part,  it  is  expected  they  will  act  prudently 
and  discreetly,  especially  in  those  things  which 
concern  their  future  peace  and  welfare  ;  the  prin- 
•:\\  requisite  to  ensure  this  is  a  proper  connex 
ion  in  marriage."  Here  my  father  paused  a  con 
siderable  time;  and  then  continued,  "  I  know, 


46  AtONZO  AJTD  MELISSA.' 

xny  child,  that  your  situation  is  a  very  delicate 
one.  Your  marriage  day  is  appointed  ;  it  was 
appointed  under  the  fairest  prospects  ;  by  the 
failure  of  Alonzo's  father,  those  prospects  have 
become  deeply  darkened,  if  not  totally  oblitera 
ted. 

"  To  commit  your  fortune  through  life,  to  a 
person  unable  to  support  you,  would  be  hazard 
ous  in  the  extreme.  The  marriage  day  can  at 
least  be  suspended  ;  perhaps  something  more  fa 
vorable  may  appear.  At  any  rate,  I  have  too 
much  confidence  in  your  discretion,  to  suppose 
that  you  will,  by  any  rash  act,  bring  either  pov 
erty  or  reproach  upon  yourself  or  your  connex 
ions."  Thus  spake  my  father,  and  immediately 
withdrew. 

In  our  present  dilemma,  (said  Alonzo)  what 
is  proper  to  be  done  ? 

It  is  difficult  to  determine,  (replied  Melissa  ) 
Should  my  father  expressly  forbid  our  union,  he 
•will  go  all  lengths  to  carry  his  commands  into  ef 
fect.  Although  a  tender  parent,  he  is  violent  in 
his  prejudices,  and  resolute  in  his  purposes.  I 
would  advise  you  to  call  at  my  father's  house  to- 
morrow,  with  your  usual  freedom.  Whatever 
may  be  the  event,  I  shall  deal  sincerely  with  you. 
Mr.  and  Mrs.  Vincent  are  now  my  only  confi 
dents.  From  them  you  will  be  enabled  to  ob 
tain  information,  should  I  be  debarred  from  see 
ing  you.  I  am  frequently  here  ;  they  told  JB.C 
they  expected  you,  but  at  what  day  was  not 
known.  Mrs.  Vincent  has  been  my  friend  and 


AkONZO  AND  MELISSA.  47 

Associate  from  my  earliest  years.  Vincent  you 
know.  In  them  we  can  place  the  utmost  confi 
dence.  My  reliance  on  Providence,  I  trust,  will 
never  be  shaken,  but  my  future  prospects,  at  pre 
sent,  are  dark  and  gloomy. 

l^et  us  not  despair,  (answered  Alonzo)  perhaps* 
those  gloomy  clouds  which  now  hover  around  us, 
will  yet  be  dissipated  by  the  bright  beams  of  joy. 
Innocence  and  virtue  are  the  cares  of  Heaven* 
There  lies  my  hope.  To-morrow,  as  you  pro 
pose,  I  will  call  at  your  father's. 

Melissa  now  prepared  to  return  home  ;  a 
whipperwill  tuned  its  nightly  song  at  a  little  dis 
tance  ;  but  the  sound,  late  so  cheerful  and 
sprightly,  now  passed  heavily  over  their  hearts. 

When  Alonzo  returned,  Vincent  unfolded  the 
plan  he  had  projected.  "  No  sooner  (said  he) 
was  I  informed  of  your  misfortunes,  than  I  was 
convinced  that  Melissa's  father  would  endeavor 
to  dissolve  your  intended  union  with  his  daugh 
ter.  I  have  known  him  many  years,  and  howev 
er  he  may  dote  on  his  children,  or  value  their  hap 
piness,  he  will  not  hesitate  to  sacrifice  his  other 
feelings  to  the  acquirement  of  riches.  It  appear 
ed  that  you  had  but  one  resource  left.  You  and 
Melissa  are  now  united  by  the  most  solemn  ties 
— by  every  rite  except  those  which  are  merely 
ceremonial.  These  I  would  advise  you  to  enter 
into,  and  trust  to  the  consequences.  Mrs.  Vin* 
cen^ias  proposed  the  scheme  to  Melissa,*1  but 
implicitly  accustomed  to  filial  obedience,  she 
shudders  at  the  i$ea  of  a  clandestine  marriage- 


43  ALONliO   AND  MELISSA, 

But  when  her  father  shall  proceed  to  rigorous 
measures,  she  will,  I  think,  consent  to  the  alter- 
fcative.  And  this  measure,  once  adopted,  her 
father  must  consent  also  ;  or  if  not,  you  secure 
your  own  happiness,  and  what  you  esteem,  more, 
that  of  Melissa." 

<l  Bat  you  must  be  sensible  of  my  inability  to 
support  her  a^  she  deserves,  (replied  Alonzo)  e- 
ven  should  she  consent  to  it.*7  * 

"  The  world  is  before  you,  (answered  Vincent) 
you  have  friends,  you  have  acquirements  which 
\vill  not  fail  you.  In  a  country  like  this,  you  can 
hardly  fail  of  obtaining  a  competency,  which, 
with  the  other  requisites,  will  ensure  your  inde 
pendence  and  felicity." 

Alonzo  informed  Vincent  what  had  been  a- 
greed  upon  between  Melissa  and  himself,  res- 
pectin^  his  visiting  e  morrow  ,  "  af 

ter  \vhich  (he  said)  we  will  discourse  further  on 
the  subject." 

The  next  day  Alonzo  repaired  to  the  house  of 
Melissa's  father.  As  he  approached  he  saw  Me 
lissa  sitting  in  a  shady  recess  at  one  end  of  the 
garden  near  which  the  road  passed.  She  was 
leaning  with  her  head  upon  her  hand,  in  a  pen 
sive  posture  ;  a  deep  dejection  was  depicted  up 
on  her  features,  which  enlivened  into  a  transient 
glow  as  soon  as  she  saw  Alonzo.  She  arose, 
met  him,  and  invited  him  into  the  house 

Alonzo  was  received  with  a  cool  reserve  hy  all 

pt  Melissa.     Her  father  saluted  him  wmi  a 

t  uud  retiring  bow,  as  he  passed  with  Me- 


ALONZO   AND  MFLISSA.  49 

lissa  to  her  room  As  soon  as  they  were  seated, 
a  maiden  aunt,  who  had  doubled  her  teens,  out 
lived  many  of  her  suitors,  and  who  had  lately 
come  to  reside  with  the  family,  entered,  and  sea- 
ted  herself  by  the  window,  alternately  humming 
a  tune,  and  impudently  staring  at  Alonzo,  with 
out  speaking  a  word,  except  snappishly,  to  con 
tradict  Melissa  in  any  thing  she  advanced,  which 
the  latter  passed  oft' with  only  a  faint  smile; 

This  interruption  was  not  of  long  continuance,* 
Melissa's  father  entered,  and  requested  the  two 
ladies  to  withdraw,  which  was  instantly  done.  He 
then  addressed  Alonzo  as  follows  :  "  When  I 
gave  consent  for  you  to  marry  my  daughter,  4t 
was  on  the  conviction  that  your  future  resources 
would  be  adequate  to  support  her  honorably  and 
independently.  Circumstances  have  since  taken 
place,  which  render  this  point  extremely  doubt 
ful.  Parental  duty  and  affection  demand  that  I 
should  know  your  means  and  prospects  before  I 
sanction  a  proceeding  which  may  reduce  my  child 
to  penury  and  to  want.0  He  paused  for  a  reply, 
but  Alonzo  was  silent.  He  continued — "You 
yourself  must  acknowledge,  that  to  burthen  your 
self  with  the  expense  of  a  family  ;  'to  transfer  a 
woman  from  affluence  to  poverty  without  even 
an  object  in  view  to  provide  for  either,  would  be 
the  height  of  folly  and'  extravagance."  Again  he 
paused,  but  Alonzo  was  still  silent.  He  proceed 
ed — 4i  Could  you,  Alonzo,  suffer  life,  when  you 
see  the  wife  of  your  bosom,  probably  your  infant 
children,  pining  in  misery  ^  for  want  of  bread  ? 


50  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

And  what  else  have  )rou  to  expect  if  you  marry 
in  your  present  situation  ?  You  have  friends  ai.d 
well  wishers ;  but  which  of  them  will  advance 
you  four  or  five  thousand  pounds,  as  a  gratuity  ? 
My  daughter  must  be  supported  according  to  her 
rank  and  standing  in  life.  Are  \ou  enabled  to 
do  this  ?  If  not,  you  cahnot  reasonably  suppose 
that  I  shall  consent  to  your  marrying  her.  You 
may 'say  that  your  acquirements,  your  prudence, 
and  your  industry  will  procure  you  a  handsome 
support.  This  well  may  do  in  single  life,  but  to 
depend  on  these  for  the  future  exigences  of  a 
family,  is  hazarding  peace,  honor  and  reputation, 
at  a  single  game  of  chance.  If,  therefore,  \  ou 
have  no  resources  or  expectation  but  such  us 
these,  your  own  judgment  will  teach  you  the  ne 
cessity  of  immediately  itlinquishing  all  preten 
sions  to  the  hand  of  Melissa" — and  immediately 
left  the  room. 

Why  was  Alonzo  speechless  thro'  the 
of  this  discourse  ?—  What  reply  could  he 
made  ?  what  were  the  prospects  before  him  but 
penury,  want,  misery  and  woe  !  Where,  indeed, 
were  "the  means  by  which  Melissa  was  to  be 
shielded  from  poverty,  if  connected  with  his  for 
tunes.  The  idea  was  not  new,  but  it  come  upon 
fora  with  redoubled  anguish.  He  arose  and 
looked  around  for  Melissa,  but  she  was-  not  to  be 
seen.  He  left  the  house,  and  walked  slowly  to 
wards  Vincent's.  At  a  little  distance  he  'met 
Melissa,  who  had  been  strolling  in  an  adjoining 
avenue.  H*  informed  her  gf  ail  that  had 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

It  was  no  more  than  they  both  expected,  yet  it 
was  a  shock  their  fortitude  could  scarcely  sus 
tain,  Disappointment  seldom  finds  her  votaries 
prepared  to  receive  her. 

JVlelissa  told  Alonzo,  that  her  father's  determi 
nations  were  unchangeable  ;  that  his  sister  [the 
before  mentioned  maiden  lady]  held  a  consid 
erable  influence  over  him  and  dictated  the  con 
cerns  of  the  family,  and  that  from  her,  there  was 
nothing  to  hope  in  their  favor.  Her  mother,  she 
said,  was  her  friend,  but.  could  not  contradict  tl\e 
will  of  her  father.  Her  brother  would  be  at  home 
in  a  few  days  ;  how  he  would  act  on  this  occa 
sion  she  was  unable  tp  say  :  but  were  he  even 
their  friend  he  would  have  but  feeble  influence 
with  her  father  and  aunt.  "  What  is  to  be  the 
end  of  these  troubles  [continued  Melissa]  it  is 
impossible  to  foresee  ;  let  us  trust  in  the  mercy 
of  heaven  and  submit  to  its  dispensations. 

Alonzo  and  Melissa,  in  their  happier  days  had, 
when  absent,  corresponded  by  letters.  This 
method  it  was  now  thought  best  to  relinquish.— 
It  was  agreed  that  Alonzo  should  come  frequent 
ly  to  Vincent's,  where  Melissa  would  meet  hirr: 
as  she  could  find  opportunities.  Having  conclu 
ded  on  this,  Melissa'  returned  home,  and  Alonzo 
to  the  house  of  his  friend. 

Vincent,  after  A! ouzo-  had  related  the  manner 
of  his  reception  at  Melissa's  father's,  urged  the 
pith  he  had  projected  qj  a  private  marriage. — 

•nzo  replied  that  even  should  MHissa  coi. 
••'o  it?  which  he  auich  doubted,  it  iaust.be  y,  n. 


52  ALONZO  AND   MELISSA 

tire  of  the  last  resort,  and  adopted  only  when  al'l 
others  became  fruitless. 

The  next  morning  Alonzo  returned  to  the  hut 
where  his  aged  parents  now  dwelt.  His  bosom 
throbbed  with  keen  anguish.  His  own  fate,  un 
connected  with  that  of  Melissa,  he  considered  of 
little  consequence.  But  their  united  situation 
tortured  his  soul.  What  was  to  become  of  Me- 
lissa,  what  of  himself,  what  of  his  .parents  ! — - 
<e  Alas,  [said  AlonzoJ  I  now  perceive  what  it  is 
to  want -the  good  things  of  this  life  !" 

Alonzo's  father  was  absent  when  he  arrived,, 
but  returned  soon  after.  A  beam  of  joj  gleam-* 
ed  upon  his  withered  countenance  as  he  entered 
the  house.  "  Were  it  not,  Alonzo,  for  your  un 
happy  situation,  [said  he]  we  should  once  more 
be  restored  to  peace  and  comfort.  A  few  per 
sons  who  were  indebted  to  me,  finding  that  I  was 
to  be  sacrificed  by  my  unfeeling  creditors,  reser 
ved  those  debts  in  their  hands,  and  have  now 
paid  me,  amounting  to  something  more  than  five 
hundred  pounds.  With  this  I  have  purchased  a 
small,  but  well  cultivated  farm,  with  convenient 
tenements.  I  have  enough  left  to  purchase  what 
stock  and  other  materials  I  need,  and  to  spare 
some  for  your  present  exigencies,  Alonzo." 

Aionzo  thanked  his  father  for  his  kindness ; 
but  told  him  that  from  his  former  liberality  he 
had  yet  sufficient  for  his  wants,  and  that  he  should 
soon  find  business  which  would  amply  support 
him.  "  But  your  affair  with  Melissa,  [asked  his 
.-•r]  how  is  that  likely  to  term  mate  ?'?  "  Fa- 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA,*  53 

vorable,  I  hope,  sir,'1  answered  Alonzo.  He 
could  not  consent  to  disturb  the  tranquility  of  his 
parents  by  reciting  his  own  wretchedness. 

A  week  passed  away.  Alonzo  saw  his  pa 
rents  removed  to  their  little  farm,  which  was  to 
be  managed  b\  his  father  and  a  hired  man.  He 
saw  them  comfortably  seated  ;  he  saw  them  se 
renely  blest  in  the  calm  pleasures  of  returning 
peace,  and  a  ray  of  joy  illuminated  his  troubled, 
bosom. 

"  Again  the  youth  his  wonted  life  regain'd, 

A  transient  sparkle  in  his  eye  obtain'd, 

A  bright,  inupasbion'd  cheedng  glow  express' d, 

The  pleas'd  sensation  of  his  tender  breast  .- 

But  soon  dark  glooms  the  feeble  smiles  o'erspread  5 

Like  morn's  gay  hues,  the  fading  splendors  fled  ; 

Returning  anguish  froze  his  feeling  .soul, 

Deep  sighs  burst  forth,  and  tears  began  to  roll.". 

He  thought  of  Melissa,  from  whom  he  had 
heard  nothing  since  he  last  saw  her.  He  thought 
of  the  difficulties  which  surrounded  him.  He 
thought  of  the  barriers  which  were  opposed  to  his 
happiness  and  the  felicity  of  Melissa,  and  he  set 
out  for  the  house  of  Vincent. 

Alonzo  arrived  at  the  residence  of  Vincent 
near  the  close  of  the  day  Vincent  and  his  lady 
were  at  tea  with  several  young  ladies  who  had 
passed  the  afternoon  with  Mrs.  Vincent.  Alon 
zo  cast  an  active  glance  around  the  company,  in 
hopes  to  find  Melissa,  but  she  was  not  there.  He 
was  invited  and  accepted  a  seat  at  table.  After 
tea  Vincent  led  him  into  an  adjoining  room, — 
"  You  have  come  in  good  time,  [said  he]  some 
thing  must  speedily  be  done^or  you  lose  Metis- 


54  A^ONZO  AND  MELISSA,' 

sa  forever.  The  day  after  you  were  here,  her 
father  received  a  letter  from  Beauman,  in  which* 
after  mentioning  the  circumstance  of  your  father's 
insolvency,  he  hinted  that  the  consequence  would 
probably  be  a  failure  of  her  proposed  marriage 
with  you,  which  might  essentially  injure  the  re- 
putation  of  a  lady  of  her  standing  in  life ;  to  pre 
vent  which,  and  to  place  her  beyond  the  reach  of 
calumny,  he  offered  to  marry  her  at  any  appoint 
ed  day,  provided  he  had  her  free  consent. 

«'  As  Beauman,  by  the  recent  death  of  his  fa- 
ther,  had  been  put  in  possession  of  a  splendid  for- 
tune,  the  proposition  allured  her  iather,  who 
wrote  him'  a  complaisant  answer,  with  an  invita 
tion  to  his  house.  He  then  strove  to  extort  a 
promise  from  Melissa,  that  she  would  break  off 
all  connexion  with  you,  see  you  no  more,  and  ad- 
mit  the  addresses  of  Beauman. 

"  To  this  she  could  not  consent.  She  urged 
that  by  the  consent  of  her  parents  she  was  enga 
ged,  to  you  by  the  most  sacred  ties.  That  to 
her  father's  will  she  had  hitherto  yielded  impli 
cit  obedience,  but  that  hastily  to  break  the  most 
solemn  obligation  formed  and  sanctioned  by  his 
approbation  and  direction,  was  what  her  con 
science  would  not  permit  her  to  do.  Were  he 
to  command  her  to  live  single,  life  might  be  en 
dured  ;  but  to  give  her  hand  to  any  except  you, 
Vv-ouldbe  to  perjure  those  principles  of  truth  and 
justice  which  he  himself  had  ever  taught  her  to 
hold  most  inviolable.  Her  father  grew  outrage 
ous  ;  charged  her  y/ith  disobedience,  with  a  blind 


ALOtfSO  AND  MELISSA,  55 

Inconsiderate  perverseness,  by  which  she  would 
bring  ruin  upon  herself,  and  indelible  disgrace 
upon  her  family.  She  answered  only  with  her 
tears.  Her  mother  interposed,  and  endeavored 
to  appease  his  anger,  but  he  spurned  her  front 
him,  and  rushed  out  of  the -room,  uttering  a 
threat  that  force  should  succeed  persuasion,  if 
his  commands  were  not  obeyed.  To  add  to  Me 
lissa's  distress,  Beauman  arrived  at  her  father's 
yesterday  ;  and  I  hope,  in  some  measure  to  alle 
viate  it,  Edgar  her  brother  come  this  morning.—* 
Mrs.  Vincent  has  dispatched  a  message  to  inform 
Melissa  of  your  arrival,  and  to  desire  her  to  come 
here  immediately.  She  will  undoubtedly  com 
ply  with  the  invitation,  if  not  prevented  by  some 
thing  extraordinary.  I  should  have  written  you 
had  I  not  hourly  expected  you," 

Mrs  Vincent  now  come  to  the  door  of  the 
room  and  beckoned  to  her  husband,  who  went 
out,  but  immediately  returned  leading  in  Melissa 
after  which  he  retired.  "  Oh,  Alon2o  !"  was  all 
she  could  say,  and  burst  into  tears.  Alonzo  led 
her  to  a  seat,  gently  pressed  her  hand,  and  min 
gled  his  tears  with  hers  but  was  unable  to  speak. 
Recovering  at  length  he  begged  her  to  moderate 
her  grief.  "  Where  is  your  fortitude  and  your 
firmnes  (said  he)  Melissa,  which  I  have  so  often 
seen  triumphing  over  affliction  ?"  Her  extreme 
anguish  prevented  a  reply.  Deeply  affected  and 
alarmed  at  the  storm  of  distress  which  raged  in 
her  bosom,  he  endeavoured  to  consolate  her,  tho* 
consolation  was  a  stranger  to  his  own  breast, ' — 


6  AiONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

<c  Let  us  not  Melissa  (said  he)  increase  our  flood 
of  affliction  by  a  tide  of  useless  sorrow  :  perhaps 
more  prosperous  days  are  yet  in  reserve  for  us  ; 
happiness  may  yet  be  ours — never,  never  !  (she 
exclaimed)  Oil  what  will  become  of  me  !  Heaven 
cannot  desert  you  (said  Alonzu)  as  well  might  it 
desert  its  angels.  This  thorny  and  gloomy 
path  may  lead  to  fair  fields  of  light  and  verdure. 
Tern  >ests  are  succeeded  bv  calms,  wars  end  in 
peace;  the  splendors  of  the  brightest  morning 
arise  on  the  wings  of  blackest  midnight. 

Troubles  will  not  always  last.  Life  at  most  is 
short ;  Death  comes  to  the  relief  of  the  virtuous 
\vretcheJ,  and  transports  them  to  another  and 
better  world,  where  sighing  and  sorrows  cease, 
and  the  tempestuous  passions  of  life  are  known 


no  more." 


The  rage  of  grief  which  had  overwhelmed  Me. 
14ss>,  began  now  to  subside  as  the  waves  of  the 
ocean  gradually  cease  their  tumultuous  commo 
tion,  after  the  turbulent  winds  are  laid  asleep. 
Deep  sobs  and  long  drawn  sighs  succeeded  to  a 
suffocation  of  tears.  The  irritation  of  her  feel- 
ings  had  caused  a  more  than  usual  glow  upon  her 
cheek,  which  faded  away  as  she  became  compo 
sed,  until  a  livid  paleness  spread  itself  over  her 
features.  Alonzo  feared  that  the  delicacy  of  her 
constitution  would  fall  a  sacrifice  to  the  sorrow 
which  preyed  upon  her  heart,  if  not  speedily  al. 
leviated  ;  but  alas,  where  were  the  means  of  alle 
viation  ? 

She  informed  him  that  her  father  had  that  eye- 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  57 

ning  ordered  her  to  become  the  wife  of  Beau- 
man.  He  told  her  that  her  disobedience  was  no 
longer  to  be  borne.  "  No  longer  (said  he)  will 
I  tamper  with  your  perverseness  ;  you  are  deter 
mined  to  be  poor,  wretched  and  contemptible. 
I  will  compel  you  to  be  rich,  happy  and  respect 
ed.  You  suffer  the  Jack -a- Lantern  fancy  to  lead 
you  into  swamps  and  quagmires,  when,  did  you 
but  follow  the  fair  light  of  reason,  it  would  con 
duct  you  to  honor  and  real  felicity.  There  are 
happiness  and  misery  at  your  choice. 

4 '  Marry  Beaurnan,  and  you  will  roll  in  your 
coach,  flaunt  in  your  silks,  your  furniture  and 
yourequippage  are  splendid,  your,  associates  are 
of  the  first  character,  and  your  father  rejoices  in 
your  prosperity. 

"  Marry  Alonzo,  you  sink  into  obscurity,  are 
condemned  to  drudgery,  poorly  fed,  worse  clo 
thed,  and  your  relations  and  acquaintances  shun 
and  despise  you.  The  comparison  I  have  here 
drawn  between  Beauman  and  Alonzo  is  a  correct 
one  ;  for  even  the  wardrobe  of  the  former  is  of 
more  value  than  the  whole  fortune  of  the  latter. 

"I  give  you  now  two  days  to  consider  the  mat 
ter  ;  at  the  end  of  that  time  I  shall  expect  your 
decision,  and  hope  you  will  decide  discreetly. — 
But  remember,  that  you  become  the  wife  of 
Beauman,  or  you  are  no  longer  acknowledged 
as  my  daughter"  '"Thus  (said  Melissa)  did 
my  father  pronounce  his  determination,  which 
shook  my  frame,  and  chilled  with  horroV  every 
nerve  of  my  heart,  and  immediately  left  me, 

H 


££  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

"  My  aunt  added  her  taunts  tb  his  severities, 
and  Beauman  interfered  with  his  ill  timed  conso 
lation.  My  mother  and  Edgar  ardently  strove  to 
allay  the  fever  of  my  soul,  and  mitigate  my  dis 
tress.  But  the  stroke  was  almost  too  severe  for 
my  nature.  Habituated  only  to  the  smiles  of 
jny  father,  how  could  I  support  his  frowns  ?  Ac 
customed  to  receive  his  blessings'  alone,  how 
could  I  endure  his  sudden  malediction  ?" 

Description  would  fail  in  painting  the  sensa 
tions  of  Alonzo's  bosom,  at  this  recital  of  woe. 
Sut  he  endeavored  to  mitigate  her  sorrows  by 
the  consolation  of  more  cheering  prospects  and 
happier  hours. 

Vincent  and  his  lady  now  came  into  the  room. 
They  strenuously  urged  the  propriety  and  the 
necessity  of  Alonzo  and  Melissa's  entering  into 
the  bands  of  wedlock  immediate!} .  *  The  mea 
sure  would  be  hazardous,"  remarked  Melissa. 
"  My  circumstances" — said  Alonzo.  "  Not  on 
that  account,  (interrupted  Melissa)  but  rny  fath 
er's  displeasure"-—44  Will  be  the  same,  whether 
you  marry  Alonso,  or  refuse  to  marry  Beau  man," 
replied  Vincent.  Her  resolution  appeared  to  be 
staggered.  "  Come  here,  Melissa,  to  morrow 
evening  (said  Mrs.  Vincent);  meantime  you 
/will  consider  the  matter,  and  then  determine." — 
To  this  Melissa  assented,  and  prepared  to  return 
home. 

Alonzo  walked  with  her  to  the  gate  \\  hich  o- 
pened  into  the  yard  surrounding  htr  father's 
\  <-:e.  It  was  dangerous  for  him  to  go  farther, 


ALONfeO  AND  MPHSSA, 

Should  he  be  discovered  Avith  Melissa,  even  by 
a  domestic  of  the  family,  it  must  increase  the 
persecutions  against  her.  They  parted.  Alon- 
zo  stood  at  the  gate,  gazing  anxiously  '  fter  MQ-. 
lissa  as  she  walked  up  the  long  winding  avenue, 
bordered  with  ;he  odor-flowing  lilac,  and  lof 
ty  elm,  her  white  robes  now  invisible,  now  dimly 
seen,  as  she  turned  the  angles  of  the  walk,  until 
they  were  totally  obscurtd,  mingling  with  the 
gloom  and  darkness  of  the  night.  "  Thus,  (said 
Alonzo)  thus  fades  the  angel  of  peace  from  the 
visionary  eyes  of  the  war-worn  soldier,  when  it 
ascends  in  the  dusky  clouds  of  early  morning, 
while  he  slumbers  on  the  field  of  recent  battle." 

With  mournful  forebodings  he  returned  to  the 
house  of  Vincent.  He  arose  after  a  sleepless 
night,  and  w-Uked  into  an  adjoining  -field/  He 
stood  leaning  in  deep  contemplation  against  a 
tree,  when  he  heard  quick  footsteps  behind  'him. 
He  turned,  and  saw  Edgar  approaching  ;  in  a 
moment  they  were  in  each  other's  arms,  and  min 
gled  tears.  They  returned  to  Vincent's  and  con* 
versed  largely  on  present  affairs.  "  I  have  dis 
coursed  with  my  father  on  the  subject,  (said  Ed- 
gdr)  I  have  urged  him  with  every  possible  argu 
ment  to  relinquish  his  determination  ;  I  fear., 
however,  he  is  inflexible. 

*'  To  assuage  the  tempest  r,f  rrief  which  rent 
Melissa's  bosom  was  my  next  ofvject,  tn  d  in  this 
I  mist  I  hive  not  been •  nnsucce^  on  will 

this  evening,  and  will  ^rr.; 
reigned.     You.  . 


60  ALOttZO  AND  MELISSA. 

fortitude.  The  ways  of  Heaven  are  inscrutable, 
but  they  are  right. 

"  We  must  acquiesce  in  its  dealings.  We 
cannot  alter  its  decrees.  Resignation  to  its  will, 
whether  merciful  or  afflictive,  is  one  of  those  em 
inent  virtues  which  adorn  the  good  man's  char 
acter,  and  ever  find  a  brilliant  reward  in  the  re 
gions  of  unsullied  splendor,  far  beyond  trouble 
and  the  tomb." 

Edgar  told  Alonzo  that  circumstances  compel 
led  him  that  day  to  depart  for  the  army.  "  I 
would  advise  you,  (said  he)  to  remain  here  until 
your  affair  comes  to  some  final  issue.  It  must, 
I  think,  ere  long,  be  terminated.  Perhaps  you 
and  my  sister  may  yet  be  happy." 

Alonzo  feelingly  expressed  his  gratitude  to 
Edgar.  He  found  in  him  that  disinterested  friend 
ship,  which  his  early  youth  had  experienced.—- 
Edgar  the  same  day  departed  for  the  army. 

In  the  afternoon  Alonzo  received  a  note  from 
Melissa's  ftther,  requesting  his  immediate  atten 
dance.  Surprised  at  the  incident,  he  repaired 
there  immediately.  The  servant  introduced  him 
into  a  room  where  Melissa's  father  and  aunt  were 
sitting.  "  Hearing  you  were  in  the  neighbor 
hood,  (said  her  father)  I  have  sent  for  you  to 
make  a  proposition,  which,  after  what  has  taken 
place,  I  think  you  cannot  hesitate  to  comply  with. 
The  occurrence  of  previous  circumstances  may 
lead  you  to  suppose  that  my  daughter  is  under 
obligations  to  you,  which  may  render  it  improp 
er  fur  her  to  form  marriage  connections  with  any 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  61 

6ther.  Whatever  embarrassments  your  address- 
es  to  her  may  have  produced,  it  is  in  your  power 
to  remove  them,  and  if  you  are  a  man  of  honor 
you  wtfpremove  them.  You  cannot  \vish  to  in- 
volve  Melissa  in  your  present  penurious  condi 
tion,  unless  \ou  wish  to  make  her  wretched.  It 
therefore  only  remains  for  you  to  give  me- a  wri 
ting,  voluntarily  resigning  all  pretensions  to  the 
hand  of  my  daughter  ;  and  if  you  wish  her  to  be 
happy,  honorable  and  respected  in  this  life,  this  I 
say  you  will  not  hesitate  to  do." 

A  considerable  pause  ensued  ,  Alonzo  at  length 
replied,  *'  I  cannot  perceive  any  particular  ad 
vantage  that  can  accrue  from  such  a  measure.  It 
will  neither  add,nor  diminish  the  power  you  pos 
sess  to  command  obedience  to  your  will,  if  you 
are  determined  to  command  it,  either  from  your 
daughter,  or  your  servant" — "  There  brother, 
fbawled  the  old  maid,  half  squeaking  through 
her  nose,  which  was  well  charged  with  rappee] 
did'nt  I  tell  you  so  ?  I  knew  the  fellow  would 
not  come  to  terms,  no  more  than  will  your  re 
fractory  daughter.  This  love  fairly  bewitches 
such  foolish,  crack-brained  youngsters.  But  say 

Mr.  ,  what's  your  name,  [addressing  herself 

to  Alonzo]  will  love  heat  the  oven  ?  Will  love 
boil  the  pot  ?  Will  love  clothe  the  back  ?-  Will 
love"-— "  You  will  not,  [interrupted  Melissa's 
father,  speaking  to  Alonzo]  it  seems,  consent  to 
my  proposition  ?  I  have,  theiij  one  demand  to 
make,  which  of  right  yga  cannot  deny.  Prom 
ise  me  that  you  will  never  see  my  daughter  a? 


62  ALONZO  AKTD  MELISSAo 

gain,  unless  by  my  permission."  "  At  the  pres 
ent  moment  I  shall  promise  you  nothing,"  re 
plied  Alonzo,  with  some  warmth.  "  There  a- 
gain,  [said  the  old  maid]  just  so  Melissa  told 
you  this  morning,  when  you  requested  her  to  see 
him  no  more.  The  fellow  has  fairly  betwattled 
her.  I  wish  I  had  him  to  deal  with.  Things 
was'nt  so  when  I  was  a  girl ;  I  kept  the  rogues 
at  a  distance,  I'll  warrant  you.  I  always  told 
you,  brother,  what  would  come  of  your  indul 
gence  ho  your  daughter.  And  I  shoud'nt  won 
der  if  you  should  soon  find  the  girl  had  eloped, 
and  your  desk  robbed  in  the  bargain."  Alonzo 
hastily  arose  ;  "  I  suppose  [ said  he]  my  pres 
ence  can  be  dispensed  with."  *'  Well,  young 
man,  [said  Melissa's  father]  since  you  will  not 
comply  with  any  overtures  I  make  5  since  you 
will  not  accede  to  any  terms  I  propose,  remem 
ber,  sir,  I  now  warn  you  to  break  oft' all  commu 
nication  and  correspondence  with  my  daughter, 
and  to  relinquish  all  expectations  concerning  her, 
I  shall  never  consent  to  marry  my  daughter  to  a 
beggar."  '  Beggar  !"  involuntarily  exclaimed 
Alonzo,  and  his  eyes  flashed  in  resentment.  But 
he  recollected  that  it  was  the  father  of  Melissa 
who  had  thus  insulted  him,  and  he  suppressed 
his  anger.  He  rushed  out  of  the  house,  and  re- 
turned  to  Vincent's.  He  had  neither  heard  nor 
seen  any  thing  of  Melissa  or  Beauman. 

Night  came  on,  and  he  ardently  and  impatient 
ly  expected  Melissa.     He  anticipated  the 
iatioi;  her  presence  would  bestow,     JLdg-ir 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  63 

told  him  she  was  more  composed.  He  doubted 
whether  it  were  proper  to  excite  anew  her  dis 
tress  by  relating  his  interview  with  her  father, 
unless  sne  was  apprised  of  it.  The  evening  pas. 
sed  on,  but  Melissa  came  not.  Alonzo  grew 
restless  and  uneasy.  He  looked  out,  then  at  his 
watch.  Vincent  and  his  lady  assured  him  that 
she  would  soon  be  there.  He  paced  his  room. 
Still  he  became  more  impatient.  He  walked  out 
on  the  way  where  she  was  expected  to  ^come. 
Some  times  he  advanced  hastily  ;  at  others  he 
moved  slowly  :  then  stood  motionless,  listening 
in  breathless  silence,  momentarily  expecting  to 
discover  her  white  form  approaching  through  the 
gloom,  or  to  hear  the  sound  of  her  footsteps  ad 
vancing  amidst  the  darkness.  Shapeless  objects, 
either  real  or  imaginary,  frequently  crossed  his 
sight,  but,  like  the  unreal  phantoms  of  night, 
they  suddenly  passed  away,  and  were  seen  no 
more.  At  length  he  perceived  a  dusky  white 
form,  advancing  in  the  distant  dim  obscurity.  It 
drew  near ;  his  heart  beat  in  quick  succession  ; 
his  fond  hopes  told  him  it  ivas  Melissa.  The 
object  came  up,  and  hastily  passed  him,  with  a 
"  good  night,  sir." 

It  was  a  stranger  in  a  white  surtcut.  Alonzo 
hesitated  whether  to  advance  or  to  return.  It 
was  possible,  though  not  probable,  that  Melissa 
might  have  come  some  other  way.  He  hasten 
ed  back  to  Vincent's,  She  had  not  arrived. — 
"  Something  extraordinary  (said  Mrs.  Vincent) 
lias  prevented  her  coming.  -Per-haps  she  is  ill;** 


64  ALON20  AND  MELISSA. 

Alonzo  shuddered  at  the  suggestion  He  look 
ed  at  his  watch  ;  it  was  half  past  eleven  o'clock. 
Again  he  hastily  sallied  out,  and  took  the  road  to 
her  father's. 

The  night  was  exceedingly  dark,  and  illumin 
ated  only  by  the  feeble  glimmering  of  the  twink 
ling  stars.  When  he  came  within  sight  of  the 
house,  and  as  he  drew  near,  no  lights  were  visi 
ble,  all  was  still  and  silent.  He  entered  the  yard, 
walked  up  the  avenue,  and  approached  the  door. 
The  familiar  watch-dog,  which  lay  near  the 
threshold,  fawned  upon  him,  joyfully  whining 
and  wagging  his  tail.  "  Thou  still  knowest  me, 
Curlow,  (said  Alonzo)  thou  hast  known  me  in 
better  days  ;  I  am  now  poor  and  wretched,  but 
thy  friendship  is  the  same."  A  solemn  stillness 
prevailed  all  around,  interrupted  on!^  by  the  dis 
cordance  of  the  nightly  insects,  and  the  hooting 
of  the  moping  owl,  from  the  neighboring  forest,. 
The  dwelling  was  shrouded  tn  darkness.  In 
Melissa's  room  no  gleam  of  light  appeared. — 
*c  They  are  all  buried  in  sleep,  (said  Alonzo, 
deeply  sighing)  and  I  have  only  to  return  in  dis 
appointment." 

He  turned  and  walked  towards  the  street  ;  cas 
ting  his  eyes  back,  the  blaze  of  a  candle  caught 
his  sight.  It  passed  rapidly  along  through  the 
lower  rooms,  now  gleaming,  now  intercepted,  as 
the  walls  or  the  windows  intervened,  and  sud 
denly  disappeared.  Alonzo  gazed  earnestly  a 
few  moments,  and  hastily  returned  back.  No 
noise  was  to  be  heard,  no  new  objects  vyere  dis- 


AND  MELISSA.  65 

V 

cermble.  He  clambered  over  the  garden  wall, 
and  went  arou?:d  to  the  back  side  of  the  house. 
Here  all  was  solemn  and  silent  as  in  front.  Im 
mediately  a  faint  light  appeared  through  one  of 
tile  chamber  windows  ;  it  grew  brighter,  a  can- 
die  entered  the  chamber,  the  sash  was  flung  up, 
and  Melissa  seated  herself  at  the  window. 

The  weather  was  sultry,  she  held  a  fan  in  her 
band,    her   countenance,   though  stamped   with 
deep   dejection,  was  marked  with  serenity,  but 
pale  as^the  drooping  lily  of  the  valley.     Alonzo 
placed  himself  directly  under  the  window,  and  in 
a  low    voice  called  her  bv  name.     She   started 
•wildly,  looked  out,  and  faintly  cried,    "  who's 
there  ?"     He    answered,   "  Aionzo."      '4  Good 
Heavens!  (she   exclaimed)    is  it  you,   Alonzo? 
I  was  disappointed  in  meeting  you  at  Vincent's 
this  evening  ;  my  father  will  not  suffer  me  to  go 
out    without  attendants*     I  am  now  constantly 
watched  and  guarded."     *•  Watched  and  guard 
ed  !    [replied   Alonzo] — At  the  risque   of  my 
life  I  will  deliver  you  from  the  tyranny  with  which 
you  are  oppressed."-  pu  Be  calm,  Alonzo,  [said 
she]  I  think  it  will  not  long  last.     Beauman  will 
soon  depart,  after  which  there  will  undoubtedly 
be    some   alteration      Desire    Mrs.   Vincent  to 
come  here  to-morrow,  I  believe  they  will  trust 
me  to  see  her  ;   I  can,  from  time  to  time,  inform 
you  of  passing  events,  so  that   you    may  know 
what  changes  take  place.     I  am  placed  under  the 
care  of  my  aunt,   who  suffers  me  not  to  step  out 
of  her  sight*     We  pass  the  night  in  an  adjoining 

A      Jr 


66  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

chamber;  from  whence,  after  she  had  fallen  & 
sleep,  I  stole  out,  and  went  down  with  a  design 
of  walking  in  the  garden,  but  found  the  doors  Al 
locked  and  the  keys  taken  out  I  returned  and 
ra'scd  this  window  for  fresh  a?r, — Hark!  [said 
she]  nu  aunt  calls  me.  She  has  waked  and  miss 
es  inc.  I  must  fly  to  her  chamber.  You  shall 
hear  more  from  me  to  morrow  by  Mrs.  Vincent, 
Alonzo."  So  saying,  she  let  down  the  window 
sash,  and  retired. 

Alonzo  withdrew  slowly   from  the  place,   ar,d 
repasbed  the  way  he  came.     As  he  jumped  back 
over  the  garden  wall,  he  found  a  man  standing  at 
its  foot,  very  near  him  ;    after  a  moment's  scru 
tiny  he  perceived   it  to  be  Beauman.     "  What, 
my  chevalier,  [said  he  to  Alonzo]  such  an  adept 
in  the  amorous  science  already  ?  Hast  thou  then 
eluded  the  watchful  eves  of  Argus,  and  the  vigil- 
arceof  the  dt  gon  !"— u  Unfeeling  and  imperti* 
neht  intruder,  |_rc;orted  Alonzo,   seizing  hold  of 
hiris]  is  it  not  enough  that  an  innocent  daughter 
must    end ii" e  a    merciless   parent's   persecuting 
but  must  thou   add  to  her  misery    by  thy 
ting  interference  !";     -l  Quit  thy  hold,  tar. 
;,Md   Beauman.]      Art    thou  determined, 
afci5r    it'jrmh.g  the  fortress    to  murder  the  garri 
son?"-—"  Go,"  said  Alouio,  quitting  him,  "  go 
sir;     you  are   unworthy   of  my  anger.     Pursue 
th\  grovelling  schemes.      Strive  to  force  to  your 
arms  a  lad}    who  abhors  you,  and  were  it  not  on 
one  account,  must  ever  continue  to  despise  and 
feate  you."     t;  Alonzo,"  replied  Beauman,  I 


A-LONZO  AND  MPLIS$A.  67 

eeive  them  knowest  me  not.  You  and  T  Were  ri 
vals  in  our  pursuit— the  hand  of  Melissa.  Whcth. 
er  from  freak  or  fortune,  the  preference  was  giv 
en  to  you,  and  I  retired  in  silence.  From  coin 
cidence  of  circumstances,  her  father  has  now  been 
induced  to  give  the  preference  to  me.  M)  be- 
lief  was  that  Melissa  would  comply  with  her  fa 
ther's  will,  especially  after  her  prospects  of  con 
necting  with  you  were  cut  off  by  the  events  which 
ruined  your  fortune.  You,  Alonzo.  have  yer,  I 
find,  to  learn  the  character  of  women.  It  has 
br  en  my  particular  study.  Melissa,  now  ardent 
ly  impassioned  by  first  impressions,  irritated  by 
recent  disappointment,  her  passions  delicate  and 
vivid,  her  affections  animated  and  unmixed,  it 
would  be  strange,  if  she  could  suddenly  relin 
quish  primitive  attachments  founded  on  such 
premises,  without  a  struggle.  But  remove  Jier 
from  your  presence  for  one  year,  with  only  dis 
tant  and  uncertain  prospects  of  seeing  you  again, 
admit  me  as  the  substitute  in  \  our  absence,  and 
she  accepts  my  hand  as  freely  as  she  would  now 
receive  yours.  I  had  no  design— it  was  never 
my  wish  to  marry  her  without  her  consent.  That 
I  believe  I  shall  yet  obtain.  Under  existing  cir 
cumstances  it  is  impossible,  but  that  you -must  he- 
separated  for  some  considerable  time,  Then-r- 
when  cool  deliberation  succeeds  to  the  wild  va 
garies,  the  electric  fire  of  frolic  fancy,  she  will 
discover  the  dangerous  precipice,  the  deadh  a- 
byssto  which  her  present  conduct  and  inclina 
tions  lead,.  She  will  see  thai  the  blandishments. 


68  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA- 

without  the  possessions  of  life,  must  fade  and  die, 
She  will  discriminate  between  the  shreds  and  the 
trappings  of  taste.  She  will  prefer  indifference 
and  splendor  to  love  and  a  cottage. 

11  At  present  I  relinquish  all  further  pursuit  ? 
to-morrow  I  return  to  New  London.  When  Me 
lissa,  from  calm  deliberation  and  the  advice  of 
friends,  shall  freely  consent  to  yield  me  her  hand, 
I  shall  return  to  receive  it.  I  came  from  my 
lodgings  rhis  evening  to  declare  these  intentions 
to  her  father,  but  it  being  later  than  I  was  aware 
of,  the  family  had  gone  to  rest.  I  was  about  to 
return,  when  I  saw  a  light  from  the  chamber 
window,  which  soon  withdrew.  I  stood  a  mo 
ment  by  the  garden  wall,  when  you  approached 
and  discovered  me."  So  saying,  he  bade  Alon- 
30  good  night,  and  walked  hastily  away. — •"  I 
find  he  knows  not  the  character  of  INJelissa,"  sal(j 
Alonzo,  and  returned  to  Vincent's. 

The  next  day  Alonzo  told  the  Vincents  of  all 
that  had  passed,  and  it  was  agreed  that  Mrs.  Vin 
cent  should  visit  at  Melissa's  father's  that  after, 
noon.  She  went  at  an  early  hour.  Alonzo's 
feelings  were  on  the  wreck  until  she  returned^ 
•uhicii  happened  much  sooner  than  was  expected, 
svhen  she  gave  him  and  Vincent  the  following 
information  .:*-»• 

"  When  I  arrived  there,*'  said  she,  "  I  found 
Melissa's  father  and  mother  alone  ;  her  mother 
Tvas  in  tears,  which  she  endeavored  to  conceal, 
Her  father  soon  withdrew.  After  some  conver 
sation  I  enquired  for  Melissa  The  old  lady 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA^  £9 

burst  into  tears,  and  informed  me  that  this  morti. 
ing  Melissa's  aunr  (  he  old  maid)  had  invited  her 
to  ride  out  with  her.  A  carriage  was  provided, 
which,  after  a  large  trunk  had  been  placed  there- 
i,>,  drove  off  with  Melissa  and  her  aunt  ;  that 
Melissa's  father  had  just  been  informing  her  that 
he  had  sent  their  daughter  to  a  distant  part  of  the 
country,  where  *»he  was  to  reside  with  a  friend 
until  Alonzo  should  depart  from  the  neighbor 
hood.  The  reason  of  this  sudden  resolution  was 
his  being  informed  by  Beauman,  that  notwith 
standing  his  precaution,  Melissa  and  Alonzo  had 
an  interview  the  last  evening.  Where  she  was 
sent  to,  the  old  lady  could  not  tell,  but  she  was 
convinced  that  Melissa  was  not  apprised  of  the 
design  when  she  consented  to  go.  Her  aunt  had 
heretofore  been  living  with  the  relatives  of  the 
family  in  various  parts  of  the  state. "  Alonzo 
listened  to  Mrs.  Vincent's  relation  with  inex 
pressible  agitation.  He  sat  silent  a  few  moments  ; 
then  suddenly  started  up,  '  I  will  find  her  if  she 
be  on  the  earth  !"  said  he,  and  in  spite  of  Vin 
cent's  attempts  to  prevent  him,  rushed  out  of  the 
house,  flew  to  the  road,  and  was  soon  out  of 
sight. 

Melissa  had  not,  indeed,  the  most  distant  sus 
picion  of  the  designs  of  her  father  and  aunt  The 
latter  informed  her  that  she  was  going  to  take  a 
morning's  ride,  and  invited  Melissa  to  accompa 
ny  her,  to  which  she  consented.  She  did  not  e~ 
ven  perceive  the  trunk  which  was  fastened  on 
the  carriage.  They  were  attended  by  a 


70  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

single  servant.  They  dro  e  to  a  neighboring 
town  where  Melissa  had  frequently  at  cud.d  her 
father  or  mother,  to  purchase  articles  of  chess, 
&c.  where  they  alighted  at  a  friend's  house,  av.d 
lingered  away  the  time  until  din:  er,  afic  r  which/ 
they  prepared,  as  Melissa  suppov d  'o  return, 
but  found,  to  her  surprise,  after  the\  h,id  enter*  d 
the  carnage,  that  her  aunt  ordered  tru  driver  to 
proceed  a  different  way.  She  asked  her  aunt 'f 
they  W'e  not  going  home.  '  Not  yet,"  s-.ia 
she.  Melissa  grew  uneasy  ;  she  knew  she  was 
to  see  Mrs.  Vincent  that  afternoon ,  she  UM  w 
the  disappointment  which  Alonzo  must  expiii- 
ence,  if  she  was  absent.  She  begged  her  aunt 
to  return,  as  she  expected  the  company  </f  -cine 
ladies  that  afternoon.  *  Then  they  must  be  dis 
appointed,  child,"  said  her  aunt.  Melissa  knew 
it  was  in  vain  to  remonstrate  .  *  he  supposed  her 
aunt  was  bent  on  visiting  some  of  her  acquaint 
ance,  and  she  remained  silent. 

They  arrived  at  another  village,  and  alighted 
at  an  inn,  where  Melissa  and  her  aunt  tarrird 
while  the  servant  was  ordered  out  by  the  latier 
on  some  business  unknown  to  Melissa.  When 
they  again  got  into  the  carriage  she  perceived 
several  large  packages  and  bundles,  which  h.  d 
been  deposited  there  since  they  left  it.  She  en 
quired  of  her  aunt  what  they  contained  ;  "  Arti 
cles  for  family  use,  child  "  she  replied,  and  or 
dered  the  driver  to  proceed- 

They  passed  along  winding  and  solitary  paths, 
into  a  bye  road  which  led  through  an  unfrequeu- 


AtONZO  AND  MELISSA*  7 

ted  wood,  that  opened  into  a  rocky  part  cf  the 
country  bordering  on  the  Sound.  Here  they 
stopped  at  the  only  house  in  view.  It  was  a 
miserable  hut,  built  of  logs,  and  boarded  with 
slab*}.  They  alighted  from  the  carriage,  and  Me- 
lissa'*  aunt,  handing  the  driver  a  large  bunch  of 
kev-s,  u  remeimer  to  do  as  I  have  told  you," 
s;tid  sht-  ar.d  he  drove  rapidly  away.  It  was 
with  some  difficulty  they  got  into  the  hut,  as  a 
me  -gre  cow,  with  a  long  }oke  on  her  neck,  a 
board  before  her  eyes,  and  a  cross  piece  on  her 
horns,  stood  with  her  hend  in  the  door.  On  one 
side  of  her  were  four  or  five  half  starved  squeak- 
ing  pigs,  on  the  other  a  flock  of  gaggling  geese. 

As  they   entered    the  door,  a   woman  who  sat 
carding  wool  jumped  up,  "  Lame  !    (she  crie'd) 

ftere  is  MiVs  D ,  welcome  here  again.     How 

does  madam  do  ?"  dropping  a  low  courtesy. — - 
She  was  dressed  in  a  linsey-woolsey  short  gown, 
a  petticoat  of  the  same,  her  hair  hanging  about 
her  ears,  and  barefoot.  Three  dirty  ragged  chil 
dren  were  playing  about  the  floor,  and  the  furni 
ture  wjs  of  a  piece  with  the  building.  "  Is  my 
room  in  order  ?"  enquired  Melissa's  aunt.  "  It 
hasn't  been  touch'd  since  madam  was  here,"  an 
swered  the  woman,  and  immediately  stalked  a- 
\fray  to  a  little  back  apartment  which  Melissa  and 
her  aunt  entered.  It  was  small,  but  neatly  fur 
nished,  a. id  contained  a  single  bed.  This  ap 
pendage  had  been  concealed  from  Melissa's  view, 
as  it  was  the  opposite  side  of  the  house  from 
whence  she  alighted,  "  Where  is  John  ?"  as 


72  ALONZO  AND  MELISSAo 

Melissa's  aunt.  "  M}  husband  is  in  the  garden, 
(replied  the  woman)  I  will  call  him,"  and  out  she 
scampered.  John  soon  appeared,  and  exhibited 
an  exact  counter  part  of  his  wife.  What  does 
madam  please  to  want  ?"  said  he,  bowing  three 
or  four  times.  "  I  want  you,  John,"  sne  answer, 
ed,  ad  immediately  stepped  into  the  other  room, 
and  gave  some  directions  in  a  low  voice,  to  him 
and  his  wife.  La  me  !  (said  the  wciiK-.n)  ni  id- 
am  a'nt  a  going  to  live  in  that  doleful  place  !" 
Melissa  could  not  understand  her  unit's  reply, 
but  heard  her  give  difections  to  "  first  hang  on 
the  tea  kettle."  This  done,  while  Joh>-  and  his 
wife  went  out,  Melissa's  aunt  prepared  tea  in  her 
own  room.  In  about  an  hour  John  and  his  wife 
returned,  and  gave  the  same  bunch  of  ke)  s  to  Me- 
lissa's  aunt,  which  she  had  given  to  the  servant 
who  drove  the  carriage. 

Melissa  was  involved  in  inscrutable  mystery 
respecting  these  extraordinary  proceedings.  She 
conjectured  that  they  boded  htr  no  good,  but  she 
could  not  penetrate  into  her  aunt's  designs  She 
frequently  looked  out,  hoping  to  see  the  carriage 
return,  but  was  disappointed.  When  tea  was 
made  ready,  she  could  neither  eat  nor  drink.  Af 
ter  her  aunt  had  disposed  of  a  dozen  cups  of  tea, 
and  an  adequate  proportion  of  biscuit,  butter  and 
dried  beef,  she  directed  Melissa  to  prepare  to 
take  a  walk.  The  sun  was  low  ;  they  proceed 
ed  through  fields,  in  a  foot  path,  over  rough  and 
tjneven  ways,  directly  towards  the  Sound.  They 
walked  about  a  mile,  when,  they  came  ta  a  large, 


ALONZO  ANI/M£LISSA>  73 

fashioned,  castle-like  building,  surrounded  by 
a  high,  thick  wall,  and  almost  totally  concealed 
on  all  sides  from  the  sight,  by  irregular  rows  of 
large  locusts  and  elm  trees,  dry  prim*  hedges, 
and  green  shrubbery.  The  gate  which  opened 
into  the  yard,  was  made  of  strong  hard  wood, 
thickly  crossed  on  the  out  side  with  iron  bars,  avid 
filled  with  old  iron  spikes.  Melissa's  aunt  un 
locked  the  gate,  and  they  entered  the  yard,  which 
Wits  overgrown  .with  rank  grass  and  rushes  ;  the- 
avenue  which  led  to  the  house  was  almost  in  the 
same  condition.  The  house  was  of  real  Gothic 
architecture,  bailt  of  xude  stone,  with  battle* 
merits. 

The  doors  were  constructed  in  the  same  man 
ner  as  the  gate  at  which  tlrey  entered  the  yard. 
They  unlocked  the  door,  which  screaked  heavily 
on  its  hinges,  and  went  in.  They  ascended  a 
flight  of  stairs,  wound  through  several  dark  and 
empty  rooms,  till  they  came  to  one  which  was 
handsomely  furnished,  with  a  fire  burning  on  the 
hearth.  Two  beds  were  in  the  room,  with  ta 
bles  and  ch.iirs,  and  other  conveniences  for  house 
keeping.  ;*  H^re  we  are  safe,"  said  Melissa's 
aunt,  "  as  I  have  took  care  to  lock  all  the  doors 
and  gates  after  me,  and  here,  Melissa,  you  are  in 
the  mansion  of  your  ancestors.  Your  great 

*  Th.  botanical  n.tme  of  this  shrub  is  not  recollected.-— • 
There  were  formerly  a  great  number  of  pri;n  hedges  in 
New  England,  and  other  parts  of  America.  What  is  most 
remarkable,  is,  that  they  all  died  the  year  previous  to  ths 
cpmmi,ncement  of  the  American  war. 
ft 


AtONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

grand  father,  who  came  over  from  England,  built 
this  house  in  the  earliest  settlements  of  the  coun 
try,  and  here  he  resided  until  his  death.  The 
reason  why  so  high  and  thick  a  wall  was  built  a- 
round  it,  and  the  doors  and  gates  so  strongly  for 
tified,  was  to  secure  it  against  the  Indians,  who 
frequently  committed  depredations  on  the  early 
sellers.  Your  grand  father  came  in  possession 
of  this  estate  after  his  father's  death  ;  it  fell  to  me 
by  will,  with  the  lands  surrounding  it  1  he 
jhouse  has  sometimes  been  tenanted,  at  others 
not.  It  has  now  been  vacant  for  a  few  }  ears* 
The  lands  are  rented  yearly.  John,  the  person 
from  whose  house  we  last  came,  is  my  overseer 
and  tenant.  I  had  a  small  room  built,  adjoining 
that  hut,  where  I  generally  reside  for  a  week 
when  I  come  to  receive  my  rents.  1  have  tho't 
frequently  of  fitting  up  this  place  for  my  future 
residence,  but  circumstances  have  hitherto  hin 
dered  my  carrying  the  scheme  into  effect,  and 
now,  perhaps,  it  will  never  take  place. 

Your  perverseness,  Melissa,  in  refusing  to 
comply  with  the  wishes  of  your  friendy,  has  in 
duced  us  to  adopt  the  method  of  bringing  you 
here  where  you  are  to  remain  until  Alonzo  leaves 
your  neighbourhood,  at  least.  Notwithstanding 
your  father's  injunctions  and  my  vigilance,  you 
had  a  clandestine  interview  with  him  last  night. 
So  we  were  told  by  Beauman  this  morning,  be 
fore  he  set  ofF  for  New- London,  who  discovered 
him  at  your  window.  It  therefore  became  ne 
cessary  to  remove  you  immediately.  You  will 


AND  MELISSAo  71 

want  for  nothing.  John  is  to  supply  us*  with 
whatever  is  needful.  You  will  not  be  long  here; 
Alonzo  will  soon  be  gone  ;  you  will  think  differ 
ently  ;  return  home,  marry  Beau  man,  and  be 
come  a  Lady." 

"  My  God !  (  exclaimed  Melissa,  )  is  it  possi 
ble  my  fit  her  can  be  so  cruel  !  Is  he  so  unfe.el- 
ing  as  to  banish  rne  from  his  houst%  and  confine 
me  within  the  walls  of  a  prison,  like  a  common 
malefactor  !"  -She  flung  herself  on  the  bed  in  a 
state  little  inferior  to  distraction.  Her  aunt  told 
her  it  was  all  owing  to  her  own  obstinacy,  and 
because  she  refused  to  be  made  happy,  and  went 
to  preparing  supper. 

Melissa  heard  none  of  her  aunt's  observations, 
she  lay  in  a  stupifying  agony,  insensible  to  all 
that  passed.  When  supper  was  ready,  her  aunt 
endeavoured  to  arouse  her.  She  started  up, 
stared  around  her  with  a  wild  agonizing  counte 
nance,  but  spoke  not  a  word.  Her  aunt  became 
alarmed.  She  applied  stimulants  to  her  temples 
and  forehead,  and  persuaded  her  to  take  some 
cordials.  She  remained  seemingly  insensible 
through  the  night  :  jfist  at  morning,  she  fell  in 
to  a  slumber,  interrupted -by  incoherent  moan- 
ings,  convulsive  startings,  long  drawn  sighs,  in 
termitting  sobs,  and  by  frequent,  sudden  and 
restless  turnings  from  side  to  side.  At  length 
she  appeared  to  be  in  a  calm  and  quiet  sleep  for 
about  an  hour.  About  sunrise  she  awoke — her 
aunt  sat  by  her  bed  side.  She  gazed  --languidly 


76  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA: 

about  the  room,  and  burst  into  tears.  She  ivept 
a  long  time  ;  her  aunt  strove  to  consolate  hcrf 
for  she  truly  began  to  tremble,  lest  Melissa's  dis 
tress  should  produce  her  immediate  dissolution. 
Towards  night,  however  she  became  more  calm 
and  resigned,  but  a  slight  fever  succeeded,  which 
kept  her  confined  for  several  days,  after  which 
rbhe  slowly  recovered. 

John  came  frequently  to  the  house  to  receive 
the  commands  of  Melissa's  aunt,  and  brought 
such  things  as  they  wanted.  Her  aunt  also  some 
times  went  home  with  him,  leaving  the  ke}s  of 
the  house  with  Melissa,  but  locking  the  gate  and 
taking  the  key  of  that  with  her.  She  generally 
returned  before  sunset.  When  Melissa  was  so 
far  recovered  as  to  walk  out,  she  found  that  the 
house  was  situated  on  an  eminence,  about  one 
hundred  yards  from  the  Sound.  The  yard  was 
large  and  extensive.  Within  the  enclosure  was 
a  spacious  garden,  now  overrun  with  brambles 
and  weeds.  A  few  medical  and  odoriferous 
herbs  were  scattered  here  and  there,  and  a  few 
solitary  flowers  overtopped  the  tangling  briars 
below  ;  but  there  was  plenty  of  fruit  on  the 
shrubbery  and  trees.  The  out  buildings  were 
generally  in  a  ruinous  situation.  The  cemetery 
was  the  most  perfect,  as  it  was  built  of  hewn 
stone  and  marble,  and  hid  best  withstood  the 
ravages  of  time.  The  rooms  in  the  hou  >e  were 
mostly  empty  and  decaying  :  the  main  building 
was  firm  and  strong,  as  was  also  the  extended 
I  which  enclosed  the  whole.  She  found  that 


, 

ALON2O  AND  MFLISSA,  77 

although  her  aunt,  when  they  first  arrived,  had 
led  her  through  several  upper  rooms  to  the  cham 
ber  they  inhabited  yet  there  was  from  thence  e 
direct  passage  to  the  hall. 

The  prospect  was  not  disagreeable.  West, 
all  was  wilderness,  from  which  a  brook  wound 
along  at  a  little  distance  from  the  garden  wail  — 
North,  were  the  uneven  grounds  she  had  crossed 
•when  she  came  there,  bounded  b}  distant  groves 
and  hills.  East,  beautiful  meadows  and  fields, 
arrayed  in  flowery  green,  sloped  to  salt  marshes 
or  sandy  banks  of  the  sound,  or  ended  in 
the  long,  white  beaches  which  extended  far  into 
the  sea.  South,  was  the  sound  of  Long  Isl 
and. 

Melissa  passed  m  uch  of  her  time  in  tracing 
the  ruins  of  this  antiquated  place,  in  vie  wing  the 
white  sails  as  they  passed  up  and  clown  the 
sound,  and  in  listening  to  the  songs  of  the  thou 
sand  various  birds  which  frequented  the  garden 
and  the  forest.  She  couid  have  been  contented 
here  to  have  buried  her  afflictions,  and  forever  to 
retire  from  the  world,  couid  Alonzo  but  have  re 
sided  within  those  walls.  <%  What  will  he  thirfa 
has  become  of  me,"  she  would  say  while  the  dis 
consolate  tear  glittered  in  her  e}e.  Her  aunt 
had  frequently  urged  her  to  \  ield  to  her  father's 
injunctions,  regiin  her  liberty  and  marry  Bcau- 
rn-an  ;  and  she  every  da\  become  more  solici 
tous  and  impertinent.  A  subject  so  hateful  to 
Melissa,  sometimes  provoked  her  to  tears;  at 
others  her  keen  resentment.  She  therefore, 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA,, 

when  the  weather  was  fair,  passed  much  of  hcfc 
time  in  the  garden  and  adjoining  walks,  wishing 
to  be  as  much  out  of  her  aunt's  company  as  pos 
sible. 

One  day  John  came  there  early  in  the  morning 
and  Melissa's  aunt  went  home  with  him.  The 
day  passed  away,  but  she  did  not  return.  Me 
lissa  sat  up  until  a  late  hour  in  the  night,  expec 
ting  her  ;  she  went  to  the  gate,  and  found  it  was 
fast  locked,  returned,  locked  and  bolted  the 
doors  of  the  kouse,  went  to  bed  and  slept  as 
soundly  as  she  had  done  since  her  residence  in 
the  old  mansion.  "  I  have  at  least  (  she  said,  ) 
escaped  the  disgusting  curtain-lecture  about  mar- 
rymg  Beauman." 

The  next  day  her  aunt  returned.  "  I  was 
quite  concerned  about  you  child  (  said  she  )  how 
did  you  sleep."  "  Never  better  (she  answered  ) 
since  I  have  been  here.  "  I  had  forgotten  (  said 

her  aunt )  that  niy  rents  became  due  this  week 

I  was  detained  until  late  by  some  of  my  tenants  ,• 
John  was  out,  and  i  dare  not  return  in  the  night 
alone.     I  must  go  back  to-day.     It  will  take  me 
a  week  to    settle  my  business.     If  I  am  obliged 
to  stay  out  again,  I  will  send  one  of  John's  daugh 
ters  to  sleep  with  you."     "  You   need  not  give 
yourself  that  troublg   (replied  Melissa)  I  am  un 
der  no  apprehension  of  staying  here  alone  ;  noth 
ing  can  get  into,   or  out  of  these  premises  !" — 
\Vell  thou    hast  wonderful  courage,  child  (  said 
her   aunt)    but   I  shall  be   as  frequently  here  as 

ible,  and  as  soon  as  my  business  is  settled. 


ALO.NZO  AND  MELISSA?  79 

absent  no , more."  So  saying,  she  bade 
Melissa  good  morning,  and  set  off  for  her  resi 
dence  at  the  dwelling- of  John. 

She  did  not  return  in  two  days*  The  second 
night  of  her  absence,  Melissa  was  sitting  in  her 
chamber,  reading,  when  she  heard  a  noise  as  of 
several  people  trampling  in  the  yard  below. — 
She  arose,  cautiously  raised  the  window  a:id 
looked  out.  It  was  extremely  dark,  she  thought 
she  might  have  been  discovered. 

Her  aunt  came  the  next  day,  and  told  her  she 
was  obliged  to  go  into  the  country  to  collect 
some  debts  of  those  to  whom  she  had  rented 
lands  :  she  should  be  gone  a  few  days,  and  as 
soon  as  she  returned  should  come  there.  The 
keys  of  the  house  (  said  she  )  I  shall  leave  with 
you.  The  gate  I  shall  lock,  and  leave  that  key 
wi'h  John,  who  will  come  here  as  often  as  neces 
sary,  to  assist  you  and  see  if  you  want  any  thing." 
She  then  went  off,  leaving  Melissa  not  dissatisfied 
with  the  prospect  of  her  absence. 

Melissa  amused  herself  in  evenings  by  read 
ing  in  the  few  books  her  aunt  had  brought  there, 
and  in  the  day,  in  walking  around  the  yard  and 
garden,  or  in  traversing  the  rooms  of  the  antique 
building.  In  some,  were  the  remains  of  ancient 
furniture,  others  were  entirely  empty.  Cobwebs 
and  mouldering  walls  wrere  the  principal  orna 
ments  left. 

One  evening  as  she  was  about  retiring  to  rest? 
she  thought  she  heard  the  same  trampling  noise 
in.  the  yard,  as  on  a  formes:  occasion,  She  s 


SO  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

softly  to  the  window,  suddenly  raised  it,  and  held 
out  the  candle.  She  listened  and  gazed  with 
anxious  solicitude,  but  discovered  nothing  more. 
All  was  silent ;  she  shut  the  window  and  in  a 
short  time  went  to  bed. 

Some  time  in  the  night  she  was  suddenly  a- 
wakened  by  a  slurp  sound,  apparently  near  her. 
She  started  in  a  trembling  panic,  but  endeavour 
ed  to  compose  herself  with  the  idea,  that  some 
thing  had  fallen  from  the  shelves.  As  she  lay 
musing  upon  the  incident,  she  heard  loud  noises 
in  the  rooms  below,  succeeded  by  an  irreguLr 
and  confused  number  of  voices,  and  presently 
after,  foot-steps  ascending  the  stairs  which  led 
to  her  chamber.  She  trembled;  a  cold  chilly 
sweat  run  down  her  Lee.  Directly  the  doors 
below  opened  ai.d  shut  with  a  quick  ai-.d  violent 
motion.  And  soon  ;  ftcr  t-.he  was  convinced  that 
she  distinctly  heard  a  whispering  in  her  room. 
S'.ie  raided  her  .elf  up  in  the  btd  and  cast  inquisi 
tive  eyes  towards  her  chamber  door.  All  was 
darkness — no  new  object  was  visible — no  soui.d 
was  heard,  and  she  again  la\  down. 

Her  miud  was  too  much  agitated  and  alarmed 
to  sleep.  She  had  evidently  heard  sounds,  foot- 
steps  and  voices  in  The  house,  and  whisperings 
which  appeared  to  be  in  her  room.  The  yard 
gate  was  locked,  of  which  John  had  the  key. — 
She  was  confident  that  no  person  could  ascend  or 
get  over  the  wall  of  the  enclosure.  But  if  that 
were  practicable,  how  was  it  possible  that  any 
n  being  cowld  enter  the  house.  She  I"u4 


ALON23   AND   MFLISSA.  81 

the  key  of  every  door,  and  they  were  all  fast 
locked,  and  yet  she  had  heard  them  furiously 
open  and  shut  A  thought  darted  into  her  mind* 
v/ifs  it  not  a  plan  which  her  aunt  had  contrived 
in  order  to  frighten  her  to  a  compliance  with  her 
wishes?  But  then  how  could  she  enter  the  house 
without  keys  ?  This  might  be  done  with  the  use 
of  a  false  key.  But  from  whence  did  the  whis 
perings  proceed  which  appeared  close  to  her  bed* 
side  ?  Possibly  it  might  be  conveyed  through  the 
key  hole  of  her  chamber  door.*  These  thoughts 
tended,  in  some  degree,  to  allay  her  fears  ;  they 
were  possibilities  ;  at  least,  however,  improbable* 

As  she  lay  thus  musing,  a  hand,  cold  as  the 
icy  fingers  of  death,  grasped  her  arm,  which  lay 
on  the  outside  of  the  bed  clothes.  She  screamed 
convulsively,  and  sprang  up  in  the  bed.  Noth? 
ing  was  to  be  seen,  no  noise  was  heard.  She 
had  not  time  to  reflect.  She  flew  out  of  the  bed, 
ran  to  the  fire  and  lighted  a  candle.  Pier  heart 
beat  rapidly.  She  cast  timid  glances  around  the 
room  cautiously  searching  every  corner,  and 
examining  the  door.  All  things  were  in  the 
same  state  she  had  left  them  when  she  went  to 
bed.  Her  door  was  locked  in  the  same  manner  : 
no  visible  being  was  in  the  room  except  herself. 

She  sat  duwn  pondering  on  these  strange  e- 
vents.  Was  it  not  probable  that  she  was  right  in 
her  first  conjectures  respecting  their  being  the 
works  of  her  'aunt,  and  effected* by  her  agents 
arid  instrumentality7  ?  All  were  possible,  except 
the  cold  hand  which  had  grasped  her,,  arm.— 


82  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.1 

Might  not  this  be  the  effect  of  a  terrified  and 
heated  imagination  ?  Or  if  false  keys  had  been 
made  use  of  to  enter  the  rooms  below,  might 
they  not  also  be  used  to  enter  her  chamber  ? — 
But  could  her  room  be  unlocked,  persons  enter, 
approach  her  bed,  depart  and  re-lock  the  door, 
•while  she  was  awake,  without  her  hearing  them  ? 

She  knew  she  could  not  go  to  sleep,  and  she 
determined  not  to  go  to  bed  again  that  night  — 
She  took  up  a  book,  but  her  spirits  had  been  too 
much  disordered  by  the  past  scenes  to  permit  her 
to  read.  She  looked  out  of  the  window.  The 
moon  had  arisen  and  cast  a  pale  lustre  over  the 
landscape.  She  recollected  the  opening  and 
shutting  of  the  door — perhaps  they  were  still 
open.  The  thought  was  alarming.  She  opened 
her  chamber  door,  and  with  the  candle  in  her 
hand,  cautiously  descended  the  stairs,  casting  an 
inquisitive  e)e  in  every  direction,  and  stopping 
frequently  to  listen.  She  advanced  to  the  door  ; 
it  was  locked.  She  examined  the  others  ;  they 
were  in  the  same  situation  She  turned  to  go 
up  stairs,  when  a  loud  whisper  echoed  through 
the  hall,  expressing  "  away  !  away  !"  She  flew 
like  lightning  to  her  chamber,  relocked  the  door, 
and  flung  herself  almost  breathless,  into  a  chair. 

As  soon  as  her  scattered  senses  collected,  she 
concluded  th-.tt  whatever  had  been  in  the  house 
was  there  still.  •  She  resolved  to  go  out  no  more 
until  duv,  which  soon  began  to  discolour  the  east 
with  a  f  .inter  blue  ;  then  purple  streaks,  inter 
mingled,  wiih  a  dusky  whiteness,  ascended  in 


.ALONZO  AND  MELISSA^  83 

t 

pyramidial  columns  to  the  zenith  ;  these  fading 
slowly  away,  the  eastern  horizon  became  fringed 
with  the  golden  spangles  of  early  morn.  A  small 
spot  of  ineffable  brightness  succeeded,  and  imme 
diately  the  sun  burst  over  the  verge  of  creation, 
deluging  the  world  in  a  flood  of  unbounded  light 
and  glory. 

As  soon  as  the  morning  bad  a  little  advanced, 
Melissa  ventured  out.  She  proceeded  with  hes 
itating  steps,  carefully  scrutinizing  every  object 
which  met  her  sight.  She  examined  every  door  ; 
they  were  all  fast.  She  critically  searched  every 
room,  closet,  &c.  above  and  below.  She  then 
took  a  light  and  descended  into  the  cellar — here 
her  inquisition  was  the  same.  Thus  did  she 
thoroughly  and  strictly  examine  and  search  eve 
ry  part  of  the  house  from  the  garret  to  the  cellar, 
but  could  find  nothing  altered,  changed  or  remov 
ed  ;  no  outlet,  no  signs  of  there  having  been  any 
being  in  the  house  the  evening  before  except 
herself. 

She  then  unlocked  the  outer  door  and  proceed 
ed  to  the  gate,  which  she  found  locked  as  usual. 
She  next  examined  the  yard,  the  garden,  and  all 
the  out-houses. 

Nothing  could  be  discovered  of  any  person 
having  been  recently  there.  She  next  walked 
around  by  the  wall,  the  whole  circle  of  the  enclo 
sure.  She  was  convinced  that  the  unusual 
height  of  the  wall  rendered  it  impossible  for  any 
one  to  get  over  it.  It  was  constructed  of  seve 
ral  tier  of  hewed  timbers,  and  both  sides  of  it 


A  f,  C  !•!  SO   A  N  D  M  E 1 1 SS A , 

v/cre  as  smooth  as  glass.  On  the  top,  long  spikes 
were  thickly  driven  in,  sharpened  at  both  ends. 
It  was  surrounded  on  the  outside  by  a  deep-wide 
moat,  which  was  nearly  filled  with  water.  Over 
this  moat  was  a  draw  bridge,  on  the  road  leading 
to  the  gate,  which  was  drawn  up,  and  John  had 
the  key. 

The  events  of  the  past  night,  therefore,  re 
in  a iired  inscrutable.  It  must  be  that  her  aunt 
\vas  the  agent  who  had  managed  this  extraordi 
nary  machinery. 

She  found  John  at  the  house  when  she  return 
ed.  "  Does  madam  want  any  thing  to-day  ?" 
asked  he.  "  Has  my  aunt  returned  ?"  enquired 
Melissa.  "Not  yet5'  he  replied.  "How  long 
has  she  been  gone  ?"  she  asked.  "Four  days, 
(replied  John,  after  counting  his  fingers)  and  she 

will  not   be  back  under  four  or  five  more." 

"-Has  tne  key  of  the  gate  been  constantly  in  your 
possession  ?"  asked  she.  "  The  key  of  the 
gate  and  draw-bridge  (he  replied)  have  not  been 
out  of  my  possession  for  a  moment  since  your 
aunt  has  been  gone." — (4  Has  any  person  been 
to  enquire  for  me  or  my  aunt  (she  enquired) 
since  I  have  been  here  ?'" —  l  No  madam  (said 
he)  not  a  single  person."  Melissa  knew  not 
;t  to  think  ,  she  could  not  give  up  the  idea  of 
false  keys — perhaps  her  aunt  had  returned  to  her 
Cither's. 

Perhaps  the  draw-bridge  had  been  let  down, 
:ned  and  the  house  entered  by  means 
s.  Her  father  wou.kl  as  soou  do 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA*  85 

as  to  confine  her  in  this  solitary  place,  and  he 
would  go  all  lengths  to  induce  her  either  by  ter 
ror,  persuasion  or  threats,  to  relinquish  Alonzo 
and  marry  Beaum-m. 

A  thought  impressed  her  mind  which  gave  her 
some  consolation.  It  was  possible  to  secure  the* 
premises  so  that  no  person  could  enter  even  by 
the  aid  of  false  keys.  She  asked  John  if  he  would 
assist  her  that  day.  "  In  any  thing  you  wish, 
madam,"  he  replied.  She  then  directed  him  to 
go  to  work.  Staples  and  iron  bars  were  found 
in  different  parts  of  the  building,  with  which  he 
secured  the  doors  and  windows,  so  that  they 
could  be  opened  only  on  the  inside.  The  gate 
which  swung  in,  was  secured  in  the  same  manner. 
She  then  asked  John  if  he  was  willing  to  leave 
the  key  of  the  gate  and  the  draw-bridge  with 
her.  "  Perhaps  I  may  as  well,  (said  he)  for  if  you 
bar  the  gate  and  let  down  the  bridge,  I  cannot 
get  in  myself  until  you  let  me  in.'! — John  handed 
her  the  keys.  "  When  I  come  (said  he)  I  will 
halloo  and  you  must  let  me  in."  This  she  prom 
ised  to  do  and  John  departed.* 

*Of the  place  where  Melissa  was  confined,  as  described 
in  the  foregoing  passes,  scarce  a  trace  now  remains.  By  the 
events  of  the  revolution,  the  premises  fell  into  other  hands. 
The  mansion,  out-houses  and  walls  were  torn  clown,  the  ce 
metery  leveled,  the  moat  filled  up  ;  the  locusts  and  elm  trees 
v/ere  cut  down  ;  ail  obstructions  were  removed,  and  the  yard 
and  j^arden  converted  into  a  heautiful  meadow.  An  elegant 
i  a  I'm -house  is  now  erected  on  the  place  where  John's  I>ift 
tht'B  stood;  and  the  neighbourhood  is  thinly  settled*. 


86  ALONZO  AND 

'That  night,  Melissa  letdown  the  bridge  lock- 
^d  and  barred  the  gate,  and  the  doors  and  \vin- 
dows  of  the  house  :  she  also  went  again  over  all 
parts  of  the  building,  strictly  searching  every 
place,  though  she  wa*  well  convinced  she  should 
find  nothing  extraordinary.  She  then  retired  to 
her  chamber,  seated  herself  at  a  western  window, 
£Wid  watched  the  slow  declining  sun,  as  it  leisure. 
ly  sunk  behind  the  loft)  groves.  Pensive  twi 
light  spread  her  misty  mantle  over  the  landscape  ; 
the  western  horizon  glowed  with  the  spangles  of 
evening.  Deepening  glooms  advanced.  The 
last  beam  of  day  faded  from  the  view  and  the 
world  was  enveloped  in  night.  The  owl  hooted 
solemnly  in  tbe  forest,  and  the  whipperwill  sung 
cheerfully  in  the  garden.  Innumerable  stars 
glittered  in  the  firmament,  intermingling  their 
quivering  lustre  with  the  pale  splendours  of  the 
milk  way. 

Melissa  did  not  retire  from  the  window  until 
late  ;  she  then  shut  it  and  withdrew  within  the 
room.  She  determined  not  to  go  to  bed  that 
night  :  if  she  was  to  be  visited  by  beings,  mate 
rial  or  immaterial,  she  chose  not  again  to  en- 
ecu  nter  them  in  darkness,  or  to  be  surprised  when 
she  was  asleep.  But  why  should  she  fear  ?  She 
knew  of  none  she  had  displeased  except  her  fa 
ther,  her  aunt  and  Beauman.  If  by  any  of  those 
the  late  terrifying  scenes  had  been  wrought,  she 
had  now  effectually  precluded  a  recurrence  there 
of,  for  she  was  well  convinced  that  no  human  be- 
could  now  enter  the  enclosure  without  her 


4LON-ZO  AND  MELISSA/  87' 

permission.  But  if  supernatural  agents  had 
been  the  actors,  what  had  she  to  fear  from  them  ? 
The  night  passed  away  without  any  alarming  cir 
cumstances,  and  when  daylight  appeared  she 
flung  herself  upon  the  bed,  and  slept  until  the 
morning  was  considerably  advanced.  She  now 
felt  convinced  that  her  former  conjectures  were 
right,  that  it  was  her  aunt,  .her  father,  or  both, 
who  had  caused  the  alarming  sounds  she  had 
heard,  a  repetition  of  which  had  only  been  pre 
vented  by  the  precautions  she  had  taken. 

When  she  awoke,  the  horizon  was  overclouded, 
and  it  began  to  rain.  It  continued  to  rain  until 
towards  evening,  when  it  cleared  away.  She 
went  to  the  gate,  and  found  all  things  as  she  had 
left  them  ;  she  returned,  fastened  the  doors  as 
usual,  examined  all  parts  of  the  house,  and  again 
went  to  her  chamber. 

She  sat  up  until  a  late  hour,  when  growing 
very  drowsy,  and  convinced  that  she  was  safe 
and  secure,  she  went  to  bed ;  leaving,  however, 
two  candles  burning  in  the  room.  As  she,  for 
two  nights,  had  been  deprived  of  her  usual  rest, 
she  soon  fell  into  a  slumber. 

She  had  not  long  been   asleep  before  she  was 

suddenly  aroused  by  the  apparent  report  of  a  pis- 

toL  seemingly  discharged  close  to  her  head. — 

\     Awakened  so  instantaneously,  her  recollection^ 

j   fj>r  a  time,    was  confused  and  imperfect.     She 

s  only  sensible  of  a  strong,  sulphurous  scent : 
out  she  soon  remembered  that  she  had  left  two 
candles  burning,  an4  every  object  was  now 


8-8  AtOtfZO  AND   MELISSA. 

shrouded  in  darkness.  This  alarmed  her  ex 
ceedingly.  What  could  have  become  of  the 
candles  ? — They  must  have  been  blown  out,  or 
taken  away.  What  was  the  sound  she  had  just 
heard  ? — •  What  the  sulphurous  stench  which  had 
pervaded  the  room  ?  While  she  was  thus  musing 
in  perplexity,  a  broad  flash  like  lightning,  tran 
siently  illuminated  the  chamber,  followed  by  a 
long,  loud,  and  deep  roar,  which  seemed  to  shake 
the  building  to  its  centre  It  did  not  appear  like 
thunder  :  the  sounds  seemed  to  be  in  the  rooms 
directly  over  her  head.  Perhaps,  however,  it 
was  thunder 

Perhaps  a  preceding  clap  had  struck  near  'he 
building,  broken  the  windows,  put  out  the  lights, 
and  filled  the  house  with  the  electric  effluvium. 
She  listened  for  a  repetition  of  the  thunder — but 
a  very  different  sound  soon  grated  on  her  ear. — 
A  hollow,  horrible  groan  echoed  through  her  a- 
partment,  passing  off  in  a  faint  dying  murmur. 
It  was  evident  that  the  groan  proceeded  from 
some  person  in  the  chamber.  Melissa  raised 
herself  up  in  the  bed  ;  a  tall,  white  form  moved 
from  the  upper  end  of  the  room,  glided  slowly 
by  her  bed,  and  seemed  to  >ass  off  ne.tr  the  foot. 
She  then  heard  the  doors  below  alternately  opca 
and  shut,  slapping  furiously,  and  in  quick  sue- 
cession  followed  by  violentnoisesin  the  roomsbe- 
low,  like  the  falling  of  heavy  bodies  and  the  crash 
of  furniture."  Clamourous  voices  succeeded,  a- 
mong  which  she  could  distinguish  boisterous 
menaces  and  threatenings,  an$  th :  plaintive  tone 


ALONZ®   ANE  MFLISSA.  8 

€>f  expostulation  A  momentary  silence  ensued, 
\vhen  the  cry  of  "Murder  !  murder  !  murder  !  /" 
echoed  through  ;he  building,  followed  bv  there, 
port  of  a  pistol,  and  :->honly-  after,  the  groans  of  a. 
person  apparently  v\  the  agonies  of  death,  which 
grew  f  (inter  a>  d  fainter  until  it  died  away  in  a 
seemi'igh  expiring  o^asp.  A  dead  silence  pre 
vailed  for  a  ft  w  minutes,  to  which  a  loud  hoarse 
peal  of  ghastly  laughter  succeeded — then  again 
all  was  still.  But  she  soon  heard  heavy  fooU 
steps  ascending  the  stairs  to  her  chamber  door. 
It  was  now  she  became  terrified  and  alarmed  be 
yond  am  former  example.  "  Gracious  Heaven, 
O-  fend  me  !  (>>he  exclaimed)  what  am  I  coming 
to  !" — Knowing  that  every  avenue  to  the  enclo 
sure  was  effectually  secured  ;  knowing  that  all 
the  doors  and  windows  of  the  house  as  also  that 
which  opened  into  her  chamber,  were  fast  lock« 
ed  strictly  bolted  and  barred  :  and  knowing  that 
all  the  keys  were  in  her  p  session,  she  could 
not  entertain  the  least  doubt  but  the  noises  she 
had  heard  were  produced  by  supernatural  beings, 
and,  she  had  reason  to  believe,  of  the  most  mis 
chievous  nature.  She  was  now  convinced  that 
her  father  or  her  aunt  could  have  no  agency  in 
the  business.  She  even  wished  her  aunt  had  re 
turned.  It  must  be  exceedingly  difficult  to  cross 
the  moat,  as  the  draw-bridge  was  up  ;  it  must  be 
still  more  difficult  to  surpass  the  wall  of  the  en. 
closure  ;  it  was  impossible  for  any  human  being 
to  enter  the  house,  and  still  more  impossible  to 

enter  he,  chamber.     While  she  lav  thus  rumina- 

M 


90  ALOttZO  AND  l&ELISSA* 

ting  in  extreme  agitation,  momentarily  expect- 
ing  to  have  her  ears  assailed  with  some  terrific 
sound,  a  pale  light  dimly  illuminated  her  cham 
ber. 

It  grew  brighter.  She  raised  herself  up  to 
look  towards  the  door  ;  the  first  object  which 
met  her  eye  was  a  must  horrible  form  standing  at 
a  little  distance  from  her  bed  side.  Its  appear 
ance  wa>  tall  and  robust,  wrapped  in  a  tattered 
white  robe,  spotted  with  blood.  The  hair  of  its 
head  was  matted  with  clotted  gore.  A  deep 
wound  appeared  to  have  pierced  its  breas*,  from 
which  fresh  blood  flowed  down  its  garment.  Its 
pale  face  was  gashed  and  gory  ;  its  eyes  fixed, 
glazed  and  glaring  ;  its  lips  open,  its  teeth  set, 
and  in  its  hand  was  a  bloody  dagger. 

Melissa  uttering  a  shriek  of  terror,  shrunk  in 
to  the  bed,  and  in  an  instant  the  room  was  in 
volved  in  pitchy  darkness.  A  freezing  ague  seiz 
ed  her  limbs,  and  drops  of  chilling  sweat  stood 
upon  her  face.  Immediately  a  horrid  hoarse 
voice  burst  from  amidst  the  gloom  of  her  apart- 
ment — kC  Begone  !  begone  from  this  house  /" — 
The  bed  on  which  she  lay  then  seemed  to  be  a- 
gitated,  and  directly  she  perceived  some  person 
crawling  on  its  foot.  Every  consideration  ex 
cept  present  safety  was  relinquished  ;  instanta 
neously  she  sprang  from  the  bed  to  the  floor — 
with  convulsed  grasp  seized  the  candle,  flew  to 
the  fire  and  lighted  it.  She  gazed  wildly  around 
the  room — no  new  object  was  visible.  With 
timid  btep  she  approached  the  bed  ;  she  strictly 


4LONZO  AND  MELISSA.  $i 

searched  all  around  and  under  it,  but  nothing 
strange  could  be  found.     A  thought  darted   into 
her  mind,  to  leave  the  house  immediately  and  fly 
to  John's  ;  this  was  easy,  as  the  keys  of  the  gate 
and  draw-bridge   were  in   her  possession.     She 
stoped  not  to  reconsider  her  determination,  but 
seizing  the  keys,  with  the  candle  in  her  hand  she 
unlocked  her  chamber  door,  and  proceeded  cau 
tiously  down  stairs,  fearfully  casting  her  eyes  on 
each  side,  as  she  tremblingly  advanced   to  the 
outer  door.     She  hesitated  a  moment      To  what 
perils  was  she  about  to  expose  herself,  by  thus 
venturing  out  at  the  dead  of  the  night,  and  pro 
ceeding  s*ach   a  distance  alone  ?  Her  situation 
she  thought  could  become  no  more  hazardous, 
and  she  was  about  to  unbar  the  door,  when  she 
was  alarmed  by  a  deep,  hollow  sigh.     She  looked 
around  and  saw,  stretched  on   one   side  of  the 
hall,  the  same  ghastly  form  which  had  so  recently 
appeared  standing  by  her  bed   side.     The  same 
haggard  countenance,  the  same  awful  appearance 
of   murderous  death.       A  faintness  came  upon 
her  ;   she  turned  to  flee  to  her  chamber—  the  can 
dle  dropped  from   her  trembling  hand,    and  she 
was  shrouded  in  impenetrable  darkness.     She 
gropecj  to  find  the  stairs  :  as  she  came  near  their 
foot,  a  black  object,  apparently  in  human  shape, 
stood  before  her,  with  eyes  which  seemed  to  burn 
like  coals  of  fire,  and  red  flames  issuing  from  its 
mouth.     As  she  stood  fixed  a   moment  in  inex 
pressible  trepidation,  a  large  ball  of  fire  rolled  a- 
long  the  hall,  towards  the  door,  and  burst  with 


9&  ALONZO  AJTD  MELISSA. 

an  explosion  which  seemed  to  rock  the  building 
to  its  deepest  foundation.  Melissa  closed  her 
eyes  and  sunk  senseless  to  the  floor.  She  revi 
ved  and  got  to  her  chamber,  she  hardly  knew 
how  ;  locked  her  door,  lighted  another  candle, 
and  after  again  searching  the  room,  flung  herself 
into  a  chair,  in  a  state  of  mind  which  almost  de 
prived  her  of  reason. 

Daylight  soon  appeared,  and  the  cheerful  sun 
darting  its  enlivening  rays  through  the  crevices 
and  windows  of  the  antique  mansion,  recovered 
her  exhausted  spirits,  and  dissipated,  in  some  de 
gree,  the  terrors  which  hovered  about  her  mind. 
She  endeavoured  to  reason  coolly  on  the  events 
of  the  past  night,  but  reason  could  not  elucidate 
them.  Not  the  least  noise  had  been  heard  bince 
she  last  returned  to  her  chambe1*  :  she  therefore 
expected  to  discover  no  traits  which  might  tend 
to  a  disclosure  of  those  mysteries.  She  coi iso 
lated  herself  only  with  a  fixed  determination  to 
leave  the  desolate  mansion.  Should  J(  hn  come 
there  that  day,  he  might  be  prevailed  on  to  per 
mit  her  to  remain  at  her  .lint's  apartment  in  his 
liouse  until  her  aunt  should  return.  If  he  sho;ura 
not  come  before  sunset,  she  resolved  to  leave  the 
man.1  ion  and  piocee'd  the>c. 

She  took  some  refreshment  and  went  down 
Glairs  :  she  found  the  cloors  and  windows  <il»  f  st 
as  she  h:  cl  left  them.  She  then  again  searched 
every  room  in  the  house,  both  above  and  below, 
aid  the  cellar;  but  she  discovered  no  appear-1 
there  having  been  any  person  there.  .'.  <t 


AIONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

the  smallest  article  was  displaced  ;  every  thing" 
appeared  as  it  had  formerly  been.  She  then  went 
to  the  gate — it  was  locked  as  usual,  and  the  draw 
bridge  was  up.  She  again  traversed  the  circuit 
of  the  wall,  but  found  no  alteration,  or  any  place 
where  it  was  possible  the  enclosure  might  be  en 
tered.  Again  she  visited  the  outer  buildings, 
and  even  entered  'he  cemetery,  but  discovered 
not  the  least  circumstance  which  could  conduce 
to  explain  the  surprising  transactions  of  the  pre 
ceding  night  She  however  returned  to  her  room 
in  a  more  composed  frame  of  spirit  confident 
that  she  should  not  remain  alone  another  night  in 
that  gloomy,  desolate,  and  dangerous  solitude. 

Towards  evening  Melissa  took  her  usual  walk 
around  the  enclosure  It  was  that  season  of  ihe 
year  when  weary  summer  is  lapsing  into  the  arms 
of  fallow  autumn.  1  he  day  had  been  warm,  and 
the  light  gales  bore  revigoratmg  coolness  oil 
their  wings  as  they  tremulously  agitated  the  fo 
liage  of  the  western  forest,  or  fluttered  among 
the  branches  of  trees  surrounding  the  mansion. 
The  green  splendors  of  spring  hud  begun  to  fade 
into  a  yellow  lustre,  the  flowery  verdure  of  the 
fields  was  changed  to  a  russet  hue.  A  robin 
chirped  on  a  neighboring  oak  a  wren  chattered 
beneath,  swallows  twittered  around  the  decayed 
buildings,  the  ludicrous  mocking  bird  sung  spor- 
•  lively  from  the  top  of  the  highest  elm/  and  the 
surrounding  groves  rung  with  varying,  artless 
melody ;  while  deep  in  the  adjacent  wilderness 
the  woodcock,  hammering  on  some  dry  and  blast- 


Pi  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

ed  trees,  filled  the  woods  with  reverberant  echoes. 
1  he  sound  was  only  ruffled  by  the  lingi  ring 
breezes,  as  they  idly  wandered  over  its  surface. 
Long- Island,  now  in  possession  of  the  British 
troops,  was  thinly  enveloped  in  smoky  vapor  ; 
scattered  along  its  Chores  lay  the  numerous  small 
craft  and  larger  ships  of  the  hostile  fleet  A  few 
skiffs  were  passing  and  repassing  the  Sound,  and 
several  American  guj-boatslay  off  a  point  which 
jutted  out  from  the  main  land,  far  to  the  east- 
ward.  Numberless  summer  insects  mingled 
their  discordant  strains  amidst  the  weedy  herb- 
A  heavy  black  cloud  was  rising  in  the 
northwest,  which  seemed  to  portend  a  shower,  as 
the  sonorous,  distant  thunder,  was  at  long  inter 
vals  distinctly  heard. 

Melissa  walked  around  the  yard,  contemplating 
the  varying  beauties  of  the  scene  :  the  images  of 
departed  joys — the  days  when  Alonzo   had   par- 
ticipated  with  her  in  admiring  the  splendours  of 
rural  prospects,  raised  in  her  bosom  the  sigh  of 
deep  regret.     She  entered  the  garden  and  traver 
sed  the  alleys,  now   overgrown   with  weeds  and 
tufted  knot  grass.     The  flower  beds  were  choak- 
ed  with  the  low  running   bramble  and  tangling 
five  iinger  ;  tall,  rank  rushes,    mullens  and  dai 
sies,   had  usurped  the  empire  of  the  kitchen  gar-  . 
den.     The  viny  arbour  was  broken,  and  princi 
pally  gone  to  decay  ;  yet  the  "  lonely  wild  rose" 
blushed  mournfully  amidst  the  ruins.     As  she 
oni  the  garden,  she  involuntarily  stopped 
f»     She  paused  in  serious  reilec- 


ALONZO  AND  MFLISSA,  *}fy 

tion.  "  Here  (said  slv )  in  this  house  of  "gloom, 
rest,  in  undisturbed  silence,  my  honorable  an 
cestors,  once  the  active  tenants  of  yonder  i> 
dkNr  mansion.  Then,  throughout  these  now  sol 
itary  demesnes,  the  busy  occurrences  of  life  gli 
ded  in  cheerful  circles  Then,  these  now  moss 
clad  alleys,  and  this  wild  weedy  garden,  were  the 
resort  of  the  fashionable  and  the  ga}r.  Then, 
evening  mu^ie  floated  over  the  fit-Ids  while  yon 
der  halls  and  apartments  shone  in  brilliant  illumi 
nation.  Now  all  is  sad,  solitary  and  dreary,  the 
haunt  of  spirits  and  spectres  of  nameless  terror. 
All  that  now  remains  of  the  head  that  formed, 
the  hand  that  executed,  and  the  bosom  that  rel 
ished  this  once  happy  scenery,  is  now,  alas  !  on 
ly  a  heap  of  dust." 

She  seated  herself  on  a  little  hillock,  under  a 
weeping  willow,  which  stood  near  the  cemetery, 
and  watched  the  rising  shower,  which  slowly  as 
cended  in  gloomy  pomp,  half  hidden  behind  the 
western  groves,  shrouding  the  low  sun  in  black 
vapour,  while  coming  thunders  more  nearly  and 
more  awfully  rolled.  The  shrieking  night  hawk* 
soared  high  into  the  air,  mingling  with  the  lurid 
van  of  approaching  storm,  which  widening,  more 
rapidly  advanced,  until  u  the  Heavens  were  ar 
rayed  in  blackness. 

The  lightning,  broader  and  brighter  flashed, 
hurling  down  its  forky  streaming  bolts,  far  iii  the 
wilderness,  its  flaming  path  followed  by  the  vo!- 

*Supposed  to  be  the  male  whippenviil  :  well  known 
'•'England  states,  and  ans-.veving  to  th?  above  ps 


96  ALON20  AND  MELISSA, 

leving  artillery  of  the  skies.  Now  bending  its 
long,  crinkli.vg  spires  over  the  vallies,  now  glim- 
merino  along  he  summit  of  the  hills.  Convolv 
ing  clouds  poured  smoky  volumes  through  the 
expansion  ;  a  deep  hollow,  distant  roar,  announ 
ced  the  approach  of  "  summoned  winds."  The 
-whole  forest  bowed  in  awful  grandeur,  as  from 
its  dark  bosom  rushed  the  impetuous  hurricane, 
twisting  off,  or  tearing  up  by  the  roots,  the  stout- 
est  trees  whirling  ?he  heaviest  branches  through 
the  air,  with  irresistible  fury.  It  dashed  upon 
the  sea,  tossed  it  into  irregular  mom  it- ins,  or 
mingled  its  white  f»  arny  spray  with'  the  gloom  of 
the  turbid  skies.  Slant-ways,  the  large  heavy 
drops  of  rain  began  to  descend.  Melissa  hasten. 
ed  to  the  mansion  ,  as  she  reached  tht  door  a 
very  briliant  flash  of  lightning,  accompanied  b\  a 
tremendous  explosion,  alarmed  her.  A  thunder 
bolt  had  entered  a  large  elm  tree  within  the  en 
closure,  ar^d  wi*h  horrible  crash,  had  shivered  it 
from  top  to  bo^om.  She  unlocked  the  door,  ai  d 
hiPiied  to  her  r  lumber.  Deep  night  now  filled 
the  atmosphere  ;  the  nin  poured  in  torrents,  the 
wind  rocked  the  bui'rlr  £,  a;  d  bellowed  in  the 
adjacent  groves  :  the  se;1  raggd  and  roared,  fierce 
lightnintr-  rent  the  h-'ave-  QS  .-Ir^rriutelv  involving 
the  wor.d  in  the  sheered  flame  ^1  its  many  colour 
ed  fires  ;  thunders  rollrd  awfully  around  the  fir- 
iv>  ;,nent,  or  bu^st  with  horrid  din,  bounding  and 
reveller.' ting  among  fhe  surrounding  worxls^ 
l)i!ls  and  vallies.  It  seen  ed  nothing  less  than 
the  crush  of  worlds  sounding  thro'  the  universe 


4LONZO   ANB  MELISSA.  97 

Melissa  walked  her  room,  listening  to  the  wild 
eom motion  of  the  elements.  She  feared  that  if 
the  storm  continued,  she  should  be  compelled  to 
pass  another  night  in  the  lonely  mansion  ;  if  so, 
she  resolvfd  not  to  go  to  bed.  She  now  sudden 
ly  recollected  that  Jn  her  haste  to  regain  her 
chamber  she  had  forgotten  to  lock  the  outer  door. 
The  shock  she  h  id  received  when  the  lightning 
demolished  the  elm  tree,  was  the  cause  of  this 
neglect.  She  took  the  candle,  ran  hastily  down, 
and  fastened  the  door.  As  she  was  returning, 
she  heard  footsteps,  and  imperfectly  saw  the 
glance  of  semething  coming  out  of  an  adjoining 
room  into  the  hall.  -Supposing  some  ghastly  ob 
ject  was  approaching,  'she  averted  her^yes  and 
flew  to  the  stairs.  As  she  was  ascending  them, 
a  voice  behind  her  exclaimed  <c  Gracious  heav 
en  !  Melissa  !" — The  voice  agitated  her  frame 
with  a  confused,  sympathetic  sensation.  She 
turned,  fixed  her  eyes  upon  the  person  who  had 
spoken  ;  unconnected  ideas  floated  a  moment  in 
her  imagination — "  Eternal  powers  !  (she  cried) 
it  is  Alonzo." 

Alonzo  and  Melissa  were  equally  surprised  at 
so  unexpected  a  meeting.  They  could  scarcely 
credit  their  own  senses.  How  he  had  discovered 
her  solitude — what  led  him  to  that  lonely  place — 
how  he  had  got  over  the  wall — were  queries' 
which  first  arose  in  her  mind.,  He  likewise  could 
not  conceive  by  what  miracle  he  should  find  her 
in  a  remote,  desolate  building,  which  he  had  sup 
posed  to  be  uninhabited.  With  rapture  he  u 


98  410NZO  AND  MELISSA. 

jh<r  trembling  hand;  tears  of  jov  choaked  their- 
utterance.  '•  You  are  wet,  Aionzo,  (si. id  Me 
lissa,  at  length)  we  will  go  up  to  my  chamber,  I 
have  a  fire  there, where  you  can  dry  your  clothes. " 
*'  Your  chamber  !  (replied  Alonzo)  who  then  in* 
habits  this  house  ?"  "  No  one  except  myse'f  ; 
(she  answered)  I  am  here  alone,  Alonzo."  "  A- 
lone  !  (he  exclaimed)  here  alone,  Melissa — good 
God  !  tell  me  how — why — by  what  means  are 
}ou  here  alone  !"  u  Let  us  go  up  to  my  cham 
ber  (she  replied)  and  I  will  tell  you  all."  He 
followed  her  to  her  apartment  and  seated  him 
self  by  the  fi-e.  "  Yi  u  want  refreshment,"  said 
Melissa,  which  was  indeed  the  case,  as  he  had 
been  long  without  any,  and  was  wet,  hungry  ai.d 
ivearv. 

She  immediately  set  about  preparing  tea,  and 
soon  h  id  it  ready,  and  a  comfortable  repast  was 
spread  for  his  entertainment  And  now,  reader, 
if  'b;u  art  a  cliid  of  nature,  if  thy  bosom  is  sus- 
ccp  ible  of  refined  sensibility,  contemplate  for  a 
moment.  Melissa  and  Alonzo  seated  at  the  same 
t,;  ;le,  a  tab.e  prepared  by  her  Awn  hand,  in  a 
lonely  mansion,  separated  from  society,  and  no 
to  interrupt  them.  After  innumerable  diffi 
culties,  troubles  and  perplexities ;  af\er  vexing 
embarrass rne  Us,  and  a  cruel  separation,  they 
\vere  once  more  together  and  for  some  time  ev 
ery  other  consideration  was  lost.  The  violence 
of  the  btonu  had  not  abated.  The  lightning  still 
bkiz  .d,  the  thunder  bellowed,  the  wind  roared, 
the  sea  raged,  the  lam  poured,  mingled  with 


ALONZO  Atffc  ME1ISS4*  S^ 

heavy  hail  ;  Alonzo  and  Melissa  heard  little  of 
it.  She  told  him  all  that  had  happened  to  her 
since  they  parted,  except  the  strange  noises  and 
avvfi.l  sights  which  had  terrified  her  during  her 
confinement  in  that  solitary  building  ;  this  she 
cons  dcred  unnecessary  and  untimely,  in  her 
present  situation. 

Aionzo  informed  her  that  as  soofi  as  he  had 
learned  the  manner  in  which  she  had  been  sent 
away,  he  It  ft  the  house  of  Vincent  and  went  to 
h<:r  father's,  to  see  if  he  could  not  ftnd  out  by 
some  of  the  domestics  what  course  her  aunt  had 
taken.  None  of  them  knew  any  thing  about  it* 
He  did  not  put  himself  in  the  way  of  her  father, 
as  he  was  apprehensive  of  ill  treatment  thereby. 
He  then  went  to  several  places  among  the  rela 
tives  of  the  family,  where  he  had  heretofore  \  is- 
ited  with  Melissa,  most  of  whom  received  him 
with  a  cautious  coldnes  s.  At  length  he  came  to 
the  house  of  Mr.  Simpson,  the  gentleman  to 
whose  seat  Alonzo  wgis  once  driven  by  a  shower, 
where  he  accidentally  found  Melissa  on  a  visit, 
as  mentioned  before.*  Here  he  was  admitted 
with  the  ardour  of  friendship.  They  had  heard 
his  story  ;  Melissa  had  kept  up  a  correspondence 
with  one  of  the  young  ladies  ;  they  yp  re  mere- 
fore,  informed  of  all  except  Melissa's  removal 
from  her  father's  house  :  of  this  they  knew  noth 
ing  until  told  thereof  by  Alonzo. 

"  I  am  surprised  at  the  conduct  of  my  kins, 
man,  (said,  Mr.  Simpson)  for  though  his  deter. 

*  See  page  26, 


ATL>  MELISSA. 


jninations  are  like  the  laws  of  the  Medes  and  Per. 
sians,  unalterable,  yet  I  have  ever  believed  that 
the  welfare  of  his  children  lay  nearest  his  heart. 
In  the  present  instance  he  is  certainly  pursuing  a 
mistaken  policy.  I  will  go  and  see  him."  He 
then  ordered  his  horse,  desiring  Alonzo  to  re 
main  at  his  house  until  he  returned. 

Alonzo  was  treated  with  the  most  friendly  po 
liteness  -by  the  family;  he  found  that  they  were 
deeply  interested  in  his  favour  nnd  the  welfare  of 
Melissa.  <At  evening  Mr.  Simpson  returned,  — 
'*  Jt  is  in  vain  (said  he)  to  reason  with  my  kins- 
man  ;  he  is  determined  that  his  daughter  shall 
marry  your  rival.  He  will  not  even  inform  me 
to  tvhat  place  he  has  sent  Melissa  ;  her  aunt 
however  is  with  her,  and  they  must  be  at  the  res 
idence  of  some  of  the  family  relatives. 

I  will  dispatch  my  son  William  among  cur  con 
sections  to  see  if  he  can  find  her  out."  The 
next  morning  William  departed,  and  was  gone 
two  days,  but  could"  not  obtain  the  least  intelli 
gence  either  of  Melissa  or  her  aunt,  although  he 
had  been  the  rounds  among  the  relations  of  the 


&is  some  mystery  in  this  affair  (said  Mr. 
I  am  very  little  acquainted  with  Me 
lissa's  aunt.     I  have  understood  that  she  draws  a 
decent  support  from   her  patrimonial  resources, 
-which,    it  is  said  arc  pretty  large/  and  that   shn 
;lc5  alternately  with  her  different  relatives,      I 
•d  also  that  my  kinsman  exp< 

;s  £uniJ      i  sh~ 


ALONZO  AND  MEIIJSSA.;, 


never  marries,  which,  in  a 
will  not,  and  that  she,  in  consequence,  holds  con 
siderable  influence  over  him.  It  is  not  possible 
but  that  Melissa  is  yet  concealed  at  some  place  of 
her  aunt's  residence,  and  that  the  family  are  in 
the  secret.  I  think  it  cannot  be  long  before  they 
will  disclose  themselves  ;  you,  Alonzo,  are  wel 
come  to  make  my  house  your  home  ;  and  if  Me 
lissa  can  be  found,  she  shall  be  treated  as  my 
daughter.  Alonzo  thanked  him  for  his  friend 
ship,  and  fatherly  kindness  :  "  I  must  continue 
(said  he)  my  researches  for  Melissa  ;  the  result 
you  shall  know." 

He  then  departed,  and  travelled  through  the 
neighbouring  villages  and  adjoining  neighbour 
hoods,  making,  at  almost  every  house,  such  en 
quiries  as  he  considered  necessary  on  the  occa 
sion  .  He  at  length  arrived  at  the  inn  in  the  last 
little  village  where  Melissa  and  her  aunt  had 
stopped  the  day  they  came  to  the  mansion.  Here 
the  inn-keeper  informed  him  that  two  ladies,  an 
swering  his  description,  had  been  at  his  house  ; 
he  named  the  time,  which  was  the  day  in  which 
Melissa,  with  her  aunt,  left  her  father's  house.  — 
The  inn-keeper  told  him  that  they  purchased 
some  articles  in  the  village,  and  dnfye  oft*  to  the 
south.  Alonzo  then  traversed  the  country  ad 
joining  the  Sound,  far  to  the  westward,  and  re 
turning  eastward,  when  he  was  overtaken  by  the 
shower?  No  house  being  within  sight,  he  be 
took  himself  to  the  forest  for  shelter.  From  a 
little  hiiiv  glade  in  the  wilderness,  he  discovered 


4X101*20  AND  MELISSA* 

the  lonely 'mansion,  which,   from  its  appearance, 
"he  very  naturally  supposed  to  be  uninhabited. — - 
The  tempest  soon  becoming- severe,   he  tlvv.i^ht 
be  would  endeavour  to  reach  the  house.      When 
he  arrived  at  the  moat,  he  found  it  impossible  to 
cross  it,  or  ascend  the  vv  11 ;    nnd  he  si->o;l  in  mo 
mentary  jeopardv  of  his  life,  fro  a  the  filling  tim 
ber,  some  of  which  was   broken  and  torn  up  by 
the  tornado,  some  splintered  by  thu fiery  bolts  of 
heaven.    At  length  a  large  rree,  whiou  ^toii  near 
him,  on  the   verge  of  th     mi  ,  <>:•  ra:i^  n  tint 
place,     wts    hurled    f  >n    its    f )  i  .'it  i  >  i,     aid 
fell,  with  a  htdious  crash,  across  the  moat,  its  top 
lodging  on  the   wall.      He  sera  rf 3 led  up  on  the 
trunk,  and  made   his  way    01  the   wall.      B     ihe 
incessa*nt  glare  of  lightning  he  was  able  to  see  dis 
tinctly.     The  top  of  the  tree  was   parti \  broken 
by  the  force  of  its  fall,  and  hung  down  the  other 
side  of  the  wall.     By  these  branches  he  let  him 
self  down  into  the  yard   proceed  d  to  the  house, 
found  the  door  open,   which  M/lissa  h  id  left  in 
her  fright,  and  catered   into  one  of  the  rooms, 
where   he  proposed   to  stay  until,   at  least,  the 
shower  was  over,   stiil  supposing  the  house  un 
occupied,  ulitil  the  noise  of  locking  the  door,  and 
the  light  of  ||ke  candle  drew  him  from  the  room, 
when,  to  his  infinite  surprise,  he  discovered  Me 
lissa,  as  before  related. 

Melissa  listened  to  Alonzo  with  varied  emo 
tion.  The  fixed  obduracy  of  her  father,  the  gen 
erous  conduct  of  the  the  Simpsons,  the  constancy 
of  Alonzo,  filled  her  heart  with  inexpressible  sen- 


AND  MELISSA*  1$$ 

aat?ons.  She  foresaw  thijt  her  sufferings  were 
not  shortly  to  end.  She  knew  not  when  her  sor 
rows  were  to  close. 

Alonzo  was  shocked  at  the  alteration  which 
appeaed  in  du  features  of  Melissa.  The  rose 
had  laded  from  her  cheek  except  when  it  was 
transiently  suffused  with  a  hectic  flush.  A  livid 
paleness  sat  upon  her  countenance,  and  her  fm£ 
form  was  rapidly  wasting.  It  was  easy  to  be 
foreseen  that  the  grief  which  preyed  upon  he? 
heart  would  soon  destroy  her,  unless  speedily  al 
ia}  ed. 

The  storm  had  now  passed  into  the  regions  of 
the  east  ;  the  wind  and  rain  had  ceased,  the 
lightning  more  in, frequently  flashed,  and  the 
thurder  rolled  at  a  distance.  The  hours  passed 
hastily  ,  day  would  soon  appear.  Hitherto  they 
had  been  absorbed  in  the  present  moment  ;  it 
was  time  to  think  of  the  future.  After  the 
the  troubles  they  had  experienced  ,•  after  so  for 
tunate  a  meeting  they  could  not  endure  the  idea 
of  another  and  immediate  separation.  And  yet 
immediately  separated  they  must  be.  It  would 
not  be  safe  for  Alonzo  to  stay  even  until  the  ris 
ing  sun,  unless  he  was  concealed  ;  and  of  what 
use  could  it  be  for  him  to  remain  there  in  con- 
cealment  ? 

In  this  dilemma  there  was  but  one  expedient. 
"  Suffer  me  (said  Alonzo  to  Melissa)  to  remove 
you  from  this  solitary  confinement.  Your  health 
is  impaired.  To  you,  your  father  is  no  more  a 
father;  he  has  steeled  his  bosom  te*  paternal  a£- 


104  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

lection  ;  he  has  banished  you  from  his  house, 
placed  you  under  the  tyranny  of  others,  and  con- 
fined  you  in  a  lonely,  desolate  dwelling,  far  from, 
the  sweets  of  society  ;  and  this  only  because  you 
cannot  heedlessly  renounce  a  most  solemn  con- 
tract,  formed  under  his  eye,  and  sanctioned  by 
his  immediate  consent  and  approbation.  Pardon 
me,  Melissa,  I  would  not  censure  your  father, 
but  permit  me  to  say,  that  after  such  treatment, 
you  are  absolved  from  implicit  obedience  to  his 
rigorous,  cruel  and  stern  commands.  It  will 
therefore  be  considered  a  duty  you  owe  to  your 
preservation,  if  you  suffer  me  to  remove  you 
from  the  tyrannical  severity  with  which  you  are 
oppressed." 

Melissa  sighed,  wiping  a  tear  which  fell  from 
her  eye.  "  Unqualified  obedience  to  my  parents 
(said  bhe)  I  have  ever  considered  the  first  of  du 
ties,  and  have  religiously  practised  thereon — but 
where  Aionzo,  would  you  remove  me  ?"  "  To 
any  place  you -shall  appoint,"  he  answered.  Cl  I 
have  nowhere  to  go,"  she  replied.  "If  you 
will  allow  me  to  muae  the  place,  [said  he]  I  will 
mention  Mr.  Simpson's.  He  will  espouse  your 
cause  and  be  a  father  to  you,  and  if  conciliation  is 
possible,  will  reconcile  you  to  your  father.  This 
can  be  done  without  my  being  known  to  have  a- 
ny  agency  in  the  business.  It  can  seem  as  if  Mr. 
Simpson  had  found  you  out.  He  will  go  any* 
just  lengths  to  serve  us.  It  was  his  desire,  if 
you  could  be  found,  to  have  you  brought  to  his 
house.  There  YOU  can  remain  either  in  secret 


A10NZ3  AND  MELISSA. 

or  openly,  &s  you  shall  choose.  Be  governed  by 
me  in  this,  Melissa  and  in  all  things  I  will  obey 
you  thereafter.  I  will  then  submit  to  the  future 
events  of  fate,  but  I  cannot,  Melissa,  I  cannot 
leave  you  in  this  doleful  place.'* 

Melissa  arose  and  walked  the  room  in  extreme 
agita  ion.  What  could  she  do  ?  She  had,  indeed, 
determined  to  leave  the  house,  for  reasons  which 
Alouzo  knew  nothing  of.  But  should  she  leave 
it  in  the  way  she. had  proposed,  she. was  not  sure 
but  she  would  be  immediately  remai-dcd  back, 
more  strictly  guarded,  and  more  severely  treated. 
To  continue  there,  under  existing  circumstances, 
would  be  impossible,  and  long  to  exist.  She 
therefore  came  to  a  determination—  "  1  will  g6 
[she  said]  to  Mr.  Simpson's." 

It  was  then  agreed  that  Alonzo  should  pro 
ceed  to  Vincent's,  interest  them  in  the  plan,  pro 
cure  a  carriage  and  return  at  eleven  o'clock  the 
next  night.  Melissa  was  to  have  the  draw -bridge 
down,  and  the  gate  open.  If  John  should  come 
to  the  house  the  succeeding  day,  she  would  per 
suade  him  to  let  her  still  keep  the  keys.  But  it 
was  possible  her  aunt  might  return.  This  would 
render  the  execution  of  the  scheme  more  hazard 
ous  and  difficult.  A  signal  was  therefore  agreed 
on  ;  if  her  aunt  should  be  there,  a  candle  was  to 
be  placed  at  the  window  fronting  the  gate,  in  the 
room  above  ;  if  not,  it  was  to  be  placed  against 
a  similar  window  in  the  room  below.  In  the  first 
case,  Alonzo  was  to  rap  loudly  at  the  door.  Me 
lissa  was  to  rua  clown,  under  pretence  of  seeing 
0 


ID6>  410WZO  AND  MELIS-SA, 

who  was  there,  fly  with  Alonzo  to  the  carriage, 
and  leave  her  aunt  to  scrape  acquaintance  with 
the  ghosts  and  goblins  of  the  old  mansion.  For 
even  if  her  aunt  should  return,  which  w  <s  ex 
tremely  doubtful,  she  thought  she  could  contrive 
to  let  down  the  bridge,  and  unlock  the  gate  in 
the  evening  without  her  knowledge.  At  any 
rate  she  was  determined  not  to  let  the  keys  go 
out  of  her  hands,  unless  they  were  forced  from 
her.  until  she  had  escaped  from  that  horrid  and 
dreary  place. 

D  i)  light  began  to  break  from  the  east,  and 
Alonzo  prepared  to  depart.  Melissa  accompa 
nied  him  to  the  gate  and  the  bridge,  which  was 
let  down  ;  he  passed  over,  and  she  slowly  with 
drew,  both  frequently  turning  to  look  back. — 
When  she  came  to  the  gate,  she  stopped  ;  Alon 
zo  stopped  also.  She  waved  a  white  handker 
chief  she  had  in  her  hand,  and  Alonzo  bowed  irr 
answer  to  the  sign.  She  then  leisurely  entered 
and  slowly  shut  the  gate.  Alonzo  could  not  for 
bear  climbing  up  into  a  tree  to  catch  another 
glimpse  of  her  as  she  passed  up  the  avenue. — 
With  lingering  step  he  saw  her  move  along, 
soon  receding  from  his  view  in  the  grey  twi 
light  of  misty  morning.  He  then  descended- and 
hastily  proceeded  on  his  journey. 

Traits  of  glory  now  painted  the  eastern  skies. 
The  glittering  day-star,  having  unbarred  tke  por 
tals  of  light,  began  to  transmit  its  retrocessive 
lustre.  Thin  scuds  flew  swiftly  over  the  moon's 
decrescent  form.  Low,  hollow  winds,  murmur 


4LGNZO  AND  ME.CISSA.' 

cd  among  the  bushes,  or  brushed  the  limpid 
drops  from  intermingling  foliage.  The  fire-fly^ 
sunk,  feebly  twinkling,  amidst  the  herbage  of 
the  fields.  The  dusky  shadows  of  night  fled  to 
the  deep  glens,  and  rocky  caverns  of  the  wilder 
ness.  The  American  lark  soared  high  in  the 
air  consecrating  its  matin  lay  to  morn's  approach 
ing  splendours.  The  woodlands  began  to  ring 
\vith  native  melody.  The  forest  tops,  on  high 
mountains,  caught  the  sun's  first  ray,  which  wi 
dening  and  extending,  soon  gem'd  the  landscape 
with  brilliants  of  a  thousand  various  dies, 

As  Alonzo  came  out  of  the  fields  near  the 
road,  he  saw  two  persons  passing  in  an  open 
chair  ;  they  suddenly  stopped,  earnestly  gazing 
at  him  :  they  were  wrapped  in  long  riding  cloaks, 
and  it  could  not  be  distinguished  from  their  dress 
•whether  they  were  men  or  women.  He  stood 
not  to  notice  them,  but  made  the  best  of  his  way 
to  Vincent's,  where  he  arrived  about  noon.  Re 
joiced  to  find  that  he  hid  discovered  Melissa, 
they  applauded  the  plan  of  her  removal,  and  as 
sisted  him  in  obtaining  a  carriage.  A  sedan  was 
procured,  and  he  set  .out  to  return,  promising  to 
see  Vincent  again,  as  soon  as  he  had  removed 
Melissa  to  Mr.  Simpson's.  He  made  such  use 
of , his  time  as  to  arrive  at  the  mansion  at  the  hour 
appointed.  He  found  the  draw-bridge  dcv/n, 
the  gate  open,  and  saw  as  had  been  agreed  upon, 
the  light  at  tlie  lower  window,  glimmering  thro' 

*The  Ajnerican-lampyns,  vulgarly  called  the  liglitnii-  •- 

HUP-,  f 


108  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA." 

the  branches  of  trees.  He  was  therefore  assured 
that  Melissa  was  alone.  His  heart  beat  ;  a  joy 
ful  tremor  seized  his  frame  ;  Melissa  was  soon 
to  be  under  his  care,  for  a  short  time  at  least.— ~ 
He  drove  up  to  the  house,  sprang  out  of  the  car 
riage,  and  fastened  his  horse  to  a  locust  tree  ; — 
the  door  was  open,  he  went  in,  flew  lightly  up 
stairs,  entered  her  chamber—  Melissa  was  not 
there  !  A  small  fire  was  blazing  on  the  hearth,  a 
candle  vvas  burning  on  the  table.  He  stood  pe 
trified  with  amazement  ;  then  gazed  around  in 
anxious  solicitude.  What  could  have  become 
of  her  ?  It  was  impossible,  he  thought  but  that 
she  must  still  be  there. 

Had  she  been  removed  by  fraud  or  force,  the 
signal  candle  would  not  have  been  at  the  window. 
Perhaps,  in  a  freakish  moment,  she  had  conceal 
ed  herself  for  no  other  purpose  than  to  cause 
him  a  little  perplexity  He  therefore  took  the 
candle  and  searched  every  corner  of  the  chamber, 
iand  every  room  of  the  house,  not  even  missing 
the  garret  and  the  cellar.  He  then  placed  the 
candle  in  a  lantern,  went  out  and  examined  the 
out-houses  ;  he  next  went  round  thr  garden  and 
the  yard,  strictly  exploring  and  investigating  ev 
ery  place,  but  he  found  her  not.  He  repeatedly 
and  loudly  called  her  by  name  ;  he  was  answered 
only  by  the  solitary  echoes  of  the  wilderness. 

Again  he  returned  to  the  house,  traversed  the 

roomsl  there  also  calling  on  the  name  of  Melir-si  ; 

his  voice  re  erberateil  fj  om  the  walls,  ch  ing  jw  »y 

-jlenin  murmurs  in  the  distant  empty  apart- 


ALONZO  ANB  MEIilSSA. 


inents..  Thus  did  he  continue  his  anxious  scru 
tiny,  alternately  in  the  house  and  the  enclosure, 
until  day,  but  no  traces  could  be  discovered, 
nothing  seen  or  heard  of  Melissa.  What  had 
become  of  her  he  could  not  form  the  most  dis 
tant  conjecture.  Nothing  was  removed  from  the 
house  ;  the  beds,  the  chairs,  the  table,  all  the 
furniture  remained  in  the  same  condition  as  when 
he  was  there  the  night  before  ;  the  candle  as  had 
been  agreed  upon,  was  at  the  window,  and  an 
other  w#s  burning  on  the  table  ;  it  was  therefore 
evident  that  she  could  not  have  been  long  gone 
when  he  arrived.  By  what  means  she  had  thus 
suddenly  disappeared,  was  a  most  deep  and  in- 
scrutable  mystery. 

When  the  sun  had  arisen,  he  once  more  re* 
peated  his  inquisitive  search,  but  with  the  same 
effect.  He  then,  in  extreme  vexation  and  disap 
pointment,  flung  himself  into  the  sedan,  and 
drove  from  the  mansion.  Frequently  did  he  look 
back  at  the  building,  anxiously  did  he  scrutinize 
every  surrounding  and  receding  object.  A  thrill 
of  pensive  re'collection  vibrated  through  his  frame 
as  he  passed  the  gate,  and  the  keen  agonizing 
pangs  of  blasted  hope,  pierced  his  heart,  as  his 
carriage  rolled  over  the  bridge. 

Once  more  he  cast  a  "  longing,  lingering  look" 
upon  the  premises  behind,  sacred  only  for  the 
treasure  they  lately  possessed,  then  sunk  back 
ward  in  his  seat,  and  was  dragged  slowly  away. 
Alonzo  had  understood  from  Melissa  that 
John's  hut  was  situate  about  one  mile  north  frorji 


ALONZO   AND  MELISSA. 

the  mansion  where  she  had  been  confined. — * 
When  he  came  out  near  the  road,  he  hit  his 
horse  and  carriage,  after  securing  them,  and  went 
in  search  of  it. 

He  soon  discovered  it,  and  knew  it  from  the 
description  given  thereof  by  Melissa.  He  went 
up  and  knocked  at  the  door,  which  was  opened 
by  John,  whom  Alonzo  also  knew,  from  the  ;  or- 
trait  Melissa  had  drawn  of  him.  John  stared  in 
amazement.  "  Understanding  (said  Alonzo) 
that  you  have  the  charge  of  the  old  mansion  in 
yonder  field,  I  have  come  to  know  if  vou  can  in 
form  me  what  has  become  of  the  youi'g  lad\  who 
has  been  confined  there."  **  Confined  !  (answer 
ed  John)  I  did  not  know  she  was  confined-"— 
Recollecting  himself,  *'  I  mean  the  young  ]ady 
who  has  lately  resided  there  with  her  aunt,"  re 
plied  Alonzo.  "  She  was  there  last  night  ;  (an 
swered  John)  her  aunt  is  gone  into  the  country 
and  has  not  returned."  Alonzo  then  told  him 
the  situation  of  the  mansion,  and  that  she  was  not 
there.  John  informed  him  that  she  was  there  a- 
t>out  sunset,  and  according  to  her  request  he  had 
left  the  keys  of  the  gate  and  bridge  with  her  ,  he 
desired  Alouzo  to  tarry  there  until  he  ran  to  the 
mansion.  He  returned  in  about  half  an  hour. — 
"  She  is  gone,  sure  enough  ;  (said  John)  but 
how  or  where  i?  is  impossible  for  me  to  guess." 
Convinced  that  he  knew  nothing  of  the  matter, 
Alonzo  left  him  and  returned  to  Vincent's. 

Vincent  and  his  lady  were  much  surprised  at 
Alonzo's  account  of  Melissa's  sudden  disappear' 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.' 

ance,  and  they  wished  to  ascertain  whether  her 
father'*  family  knew  any  thing  of  the  cncunv 
stance.  Social  intercourse  had  become  suspend 
ed  between  the  families  of  Vincent  and  Melissa's 
£ ither,  MS  the  latter  had  taxed  the  former  of  im 
properly  endeavouring  to  promote  the  views  of 
Aior-zo,  They  therefore  procured  a  neighbour 
ing  woman  to  visit  Melissa's  mother,  to  see  if 
any  information  could  be  obtained  concerning 
Melissa  ;  but  the  old  lady  had  heard  nothing  of 
her  since  her  departure  with  her  aunt,  who  had 
never  yet  returned.  Alonzo  left  Vincent's  and 
went  to  Mr.  Simpson/s.  He  told  them  all  that 
had  happened  since  he  was  there,  of  which,  be 
fore,  they  had  heard  nothing.  At  the  houses  of 
Mr.  Simpson  and  Vincent  he  resided  sometime, 
while  they  made  the  most  diligent  search  to  dis 
cover  Melissa,  but  nothing  could  be  learnt  of  her 
fate. 

Alonzo  then  travelled  into  various  parts  of  the 
country,  making  such  enquiries  as  caution  dicta 
ted  of  all  whom  he  thought  likely  to  give  him  in 
formation,  but  he  found  none  who  could  give 
him  the  least  intelligence  of  his  lost  Melissa. 

In  the  course  of  his  wanderings  he  passed  near 
the  old  mansion-house  where  Melissa  had-  been 
confined.  He  felt  an  inclination  once  more  to 
visit  it — he  proceeded  over  the  bridge  which  was 
clown,  but  he  found  the  gate  locked.  He  therefore 
hurried  back  and  went  to  John's,  whom  he  found  at 
home.  On  enquiring  of  John  whether  he  had 
yet  heard  any  thing  of  the  young  lady  and  her 


ALONZO  AND 

aunt  "  All  I  know  of  the  matter  (said  John)  i», 
that  two  days  after  you  was  here,   her  aunt  came 
back  with  a  strange  gentleman,  and  ordered  me 
to  go  and  fe'ch  the  furniture  away  from  the  room 
thev  had  occupied  in  the  old    mansion.      I  asked 
her  what  had  becomv  of  young  mudam.   She  told 
me   that  young  rn..dam   had  behaved  very  indis 
creetly,  and  ohe  found  fault  with  me  for  leaving 
the  keys   in  her   possession,    though   I   did   not 
know  that  any   harm  couid  arise  from  it.     From 
the  discourse  which  my  wife  and  I  afterwards  o- 
ver heard  between  madam  and  the  strange  gen 
tleman,  1  understood  that  young  madam  had  been 
sent  to  reside  with  some   friend  or  relation  at  a 
great  distance,  because  her  father  'wanted  her  to 
marry  a  m-.m,  and  she-  wishes  to  marry  somebody 
else."     From  John's  plain  and  simple  narrative, 
Alonzo  concluded  that  Melissa  had  been  removed 
by  her  father's  order,  or  through   the  agency   or 
instigation  of  her  aunt.      Whether   his  visit  to 
the  old  mansion  had  been   somehow  discovered 
or  suspected,  or   whether  she    was  removed  by 
some  preconcerted  or  antecedent  plan,  he  could 
not  conjv.-cture.      Still,  the  situation   in  which  he 
fout-d  the  mansion  the  night  he  went   to  convey 
Tier  a  wax ,  left  an  inexplicable  impression  on  his 
mind. 

He  conld  in  no  manner  account  how  the  candle 
coukl  be  placed  at  the  window  according  to  a- 
greemem,  unless  it  hud  been  done  by  herself,  and 
if  so,  how  had  she  SQ  suddenly  been  convex  ex} 
away  ? 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 


Alonzo  asked  John  where  Melissa's  aunt  now 
was.  ''  She  left  here  yesterday  morning  fhe  an 
swered)  with  the  strange  gentleman  I  mentioned, 
on  a  visit  to  ?,ome  of  her  friends."  "  Was  the 
strange  gentleman  jou  speak  of  her  brother  ?" 
asked  Alonzo.  "  I  believe  not  (replied  John, 
smiling  and  winking  to  his  wife)  I  know  not  who 
he  was  ;  somebody  that  madam  seems  to  like 
pretty  well."  "  Have  you  the  care  of  the  old 
mansion  ?"  said  Alonzo.  "Yes,  (answered  John) 
I  have  the  keys  ;  I  will  accompany  you  thither, 
perhaps  you  would  like  to  purchase  it  ;  madam 
said  yesterday  she  thought  she  should  sell  it,"— 
Alonzo  told  him  he  had  no  thought  of  purchas 
ing,  thanked  him  for  his  information,  and  de 
parted 

Convinced  now  that  Melissa  was  removed  bv 

m> 

the  agency  of  her  persecutors,  he  compared  the 
circumstances  of  John's  relation.  "  She  had 
been  sent  to  reside  with  some  friend  or  relation 
at  a  great  distance  "  This  great  distance,  he  be.' 
lieved  to  be  New-London,  and  her  friend  or  re 
lation  her  cousin,  at  whose  house  Alonzo  first  saw* 
her,  under  whose  care  she  would  be  safe,  and 
Beauman  would  have  an  opportunity  of  renewing 
his  addresses.  Under  these  impressions,  Alonzo 
did  not  long  hesitate  what  course  to  pursue  —  he 
determined  to  repair  to  New-London  immedi 
ately. 

In  pursuance  of  his  design  he  went  to  his  fath 
er's.  He  found  the  old  gentleman,  with  his  mar- 
contentedly  tiKing  his  farm,  and  his  mother  chf 


ALONZO  ANB  MELISSA* 


fully  attending  to  household  affairs,  as  their 
row  circumstances  would  not  admit  her  to  keep  a 
maid  without  embarrassment.  Alonzo's  soul 
sickened  on  comparing  the  present  state  of  his 
family  with  its  former  affluence  ;  but  it  was  an 
unspeakable  consolation  to  see  his  aged  parents 
contented  and  happy  in  their  humble  situation,, 
and  though  the  idea  could  not  pluck  the  thorn. 
from  his  bosom,  yet  it  tended  temporarily  to  as 
suage  the  anguish  of  the  wound. 

"  You  have  been  long  gone,  my  son,  (said  his 
father)  I  scarcely  knew  what  had  become  of  you. 
Since  I  have  become  a  farmer  I  know  little  of 
\vhat  is  going  forward  in  the  world  ;  and  indeed 
we  were  never  happier  in  bur  lives  ;  after  stock 
ing  and  paying  for  my  farm;  and  purchasing  the 
requisites  for  my  business,  I  have  got  considera 
ble  money  at  command  ;  we  live  frugally,  and 
realize  the  blessings  of  health,  comfort  and  con- 
tentment  ;  our  only  disquietude  is  on  your  ac 
count,  Alonzo.  Your  affair  with  Melissa,  I  sup- 
pose  is  not  so  favourable  as  you  could  wish,  but 
despair  not,  my  son;  hope  is  the  harbinger  of 
fairer  prospects  ;  rely  on  Providence,  which  nev 
er  deserts  those  who  submissively  bow  to  the 
justice  of  its  dispensations  " 

Unwilling  to  disturb  the  serenity  of  his  parents, 
Alonz3  did  not  teil  them  his  troubles  ;  he  answer 
ed  that  perhaps  all  might  yet  come  right,  but 
that  as  in  the  present  state  of  his  mind  he  thought 
a  change  of  situation  might  be  of  advantage,  he 
a$.ked  liberty  of  his  father  to  travel  for  some  lit  : 


ALONZO  AND  MEUSSAi 

tie  time.  To  this  his  father  consented,  and  of 
fered  him  a  part  of  the  money  he  had  on  hand, 
which  Alonzo  refused,  saying  he  did  not  expect 
to  be  long  gone,  and  his  resources  had  not  yet 
fulled  him. 

He  then  sold  off  his  books,  his  horses,  his  car 
riages,  Sec.  the  insignia  of  his  better  days,  but 
now  useless  appendages  from  which  he  raised  no 
inconsiderable  sum.  He  then  took  a  tender  and 
affectionate  leave  of  his  parents,  and  set  out  for 
New- London. 

Alonzo  journeyed  along  with  a  heavy  heart 
and  in  an  enfeebled  frame  of  spirits.  Through 
disappointment,  vexation,  and  the  fatigues  he  had 
undergone  in  wandering  about,  for  a  long  time, 
in  search  of  Melissa,  despondency  had  seized  up 
on  his  mind,  and  indisposition  upon  his  body. — 
He  put  up  the  first  night  within  a  few  miles  of 
New-Haven,  and  as  he  passed  through  that  town 
the  nexts  morning,  the  scenes  of  early  life  in 
which  he  had  there  been  an  actor,  moved  in  mel 
ancholy  succession  over  his  mind.  That  day  he 
grew  more  indisposed  ;  he  experienced  an  unu 
sual  languor,  listlessness  and  debility  ;  chills,  fol 
lowed  by  hot  flashes,  heavy  pains  in  the  head  and 
back,  with  incessant  and  intolerable  thirst.  It 
was  near  night  when  he  reached  Killingsworth, 
where  he  halted,  as  he  felt  unable  to  go  farther  ; 
he  called  for  a  bed,  and  through  the  night  was 
wrecked  with  severe  pain,  and  scorched  with  a 
burning  fever. 


116  4LON20  AJSTI>  MELISSA. 


The  next  morning  he  requested  that  the  physi 
cian  of  the  town  might  be  sent  for  ;  he  came  and 
ordered  a  prescription  which  g«ve  his  patient 
some  relief  ;  and  by  strict  attention,  in  about  tea 
days  Alonzo  was  able  to  pursue  his  journey.  He 
arrived  at  New-London,  and  took  lodgings  with 
a  private  family  of  the  name  of  Wyllys,  in  areti- 
rired  part  of  the  town. 

The  first  object  was  to  ascertain  whether  Me 

lissa  WHS  at  her  cousin's.  But  how  should  he  ob 

tain   this  information  ?  He  knew  no   person  in 

the  town  except  it  was  those  whom  he  had  rea 

son  to  suppose  were  leagued  against  him.  Should 

lie  go  to  the  house  of  her  cousin,  it  might  prove 

an  injury  to  her  if  she  were  there,  and  could  an 

swer  no  valuable  purpose  if  she  were  not.  The 

evening  after  he  arrived  there   he  wrapped  him 

self  up  in  his  cloak  and  took  the  street  which  led 

to  the  house  of  Melissa's  cousin  ;    he    stopped 

when  he  came  against  it  to  see  if  he  could  make 

any   discoveries.     As  people  were  passing  and 

repassing  the  street,  he  got  over  into  a  small  en 

closure  which  adjoined  the  house,  and  siood  un 

der  a  tree,  about  thirty  yards  from  the  house  ;  he 

had  not  long  occupied  this  station,   before  a  lady 

on  ine  to  the  chamber  window,    which  was  flung 

up,  opposite  to   the  place  where    he  stood  ;  she 

iied  out,  looked  earnestly  around  for  a  few 

minutes,    then  shut   it   and   retired.       She  had 

brought  a  candle  into  the  room   but  did  not  bring 

it  to  the  window,    of  course  he  could  not  distin 

guish  her  features  so  as  to  idcutifv  them. 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

He  knew  it  was  not  the  wife  of  Melissa's  cous 
in,  and  from  her  appearance  he  believed  it  to  be 
Melissa.  Again  the  window  opened.,  again  the 
same  lady  appeared  ;  she  took  a  seat  at  a  little 
distance  within  the  room  -f  she  reclined  with  hor 
head  upon  her  hand,  her  arm  appeared  to  be  sup 
ported  by  a  stand  or  table.  Alonzo's  heart  beat 
violently  ;  he  now  had  a  side  view  of  her  face, 
and  was  more  than  ever  convinced  that  it  was 
Melissa  ;  her  delicate  features,  though  more  pale 
and  dejected  than  when  last  he  saw  her  ;— - -her 
brown  hair,  which  fell  in  artless  circles  around 
her  lily  neck,  her  arched  eye-brows  and  comman 
ding  aspect ;  Alonzo  moved  towards  the  house, 
with  a  design,  if  possible,  to  draw  her  attention, 
and  should  it  really  prove  to  be  Melissa,  to  dis 
cover  himself.  He  had  proceeded  but  a  few 
steps  before  she  arose,  shut  the  window,  retired, 
and  the  light  disappeared.  Ahjnzo  waited  a  con 
siderable  time  but  she  appeared  no  more.  Sup 
posing  she  had  retired  for  the  night,  he  slowly 
withdrew,  chagrined  at  his  disappointment,  yet 
pleased  at  the  discovery  he  had  made. 

The  family  with  whom  Alonzo  had  taken  lodg 
ings  were  fashionable  and  respectable,.  The  fcl. 
lowing  afternoon  they  had  appointed  to  visit  a 
friend,  and  they  invited  Alonzo  to  accompany 
them.  When  they  named  the  family  where  their 
visit  was  intended,  he  found  it  to  be  Melissa's 
cousin.  Alonzo  therefore  declined  going  under 
pretence  of  business.  He  however  waited  with 
anxiety  for  their  return,  hoping  lie  should  be  a- 


118  ALONZO   AND  MELISSA^ 

ble  to  learn  by  their  conversation,  whether  Me 
lissa  was  there  or  not.  When  they  returntd"  he 
made  some  enquiries  concerning  the  families  in 
town,  until  the  conversation  turned  upon  the 
family  they  had  visited.  "  The  young  lady  who 
resides  there  (said  Mrs.  Wyllys)  is  undoubtedly 
in  a  confirmed  decline  ;  she  will  never  recover." 
Alonzo  started,  deeply  agitated.  u  Who  is  the 
young  lady  ?"  he  asked.  "  She  is  sister  to  the 
gentleman's  wife,  where  we  visited  (answered 
Mr.  Wyllys^  her  father  lives  in  Newport,  and 
she  has  come  here  for  her  health."  "  Do  you 
not  think  (said  Mrs.  Wyllys)  that  she  resembles 
their  cousin  Melissa,  who  resided  there  some 
time  ago?'7  tc  Very  much  indeed,  (replied  her 
husband)  only  she  is  not  quite  so  handsome.'-' 

Again  was  Alonzo  disappointed,  and  again  did 
he  experience  a  melancholy  pleasure  ;  he-had  the 
last  night  hoped  that  he  had  discovered  Melissa, 
but  to  find  her  in  a  hopeless  decline,  was  worse 
than  that  she  should  remain  undiscovered.  "  It 
is  reported  (said  Mrs.  Wyllys)  that  Melissa  has 
been  upon  the  verge  of  matrimony,  but  that  the 
treaty  was  somehow  broken  off;  perhaps  Beau, 
man  will  renew  his  addresses  again  should  this 
be  the  case."  "  Beauman  has  other  business 
besides  addressing  the  ladies  (answered  Mr.  Wyl 
lys.)  He  has  marched  to  the  lines  near  New- 
York  with  his  new  raised  company  of  volunteers." 
[New-York  was  thai  in  possession  of  the  British 
troops,^ 


ALONZO  AND  MEL1SS  119 

From  this  discourse,  Alonzo  was  convinced 
that  Melissa  was  not  the  person  he  had  seen  at 
her  cousin's  the  preceding  evening,  and  that  shd 
was  not  there.  He  also  found  that  Beauman  was 
not  in  town.  Where  to  search  next,  or  what 
course  to  pursue,  he  was  at  a  loss  to  determine. 

The  next  morning  he  rose  early  and  wandered 
about  the  town.  As  he  passed  by  the  house  of 
Melissa's  cousin,  he  saw  the  lady,  who  had  ap 
peared  at  the  window,  walking  in  the  garden.-— 
Her  air,  her  figure,  had  very  much  the  appearance 
of  Melissa,  but  the  lineaments  of  her  countenance, 
were,  when  viewed,  by  the  light  of  day,  widely 
dissimilar.  Alonzo  felt  no  strong  curiosity  far 
ther  to  examine  her  features,  but  passing  on,  re 
turned  to  his  lodgings. 

How  he  was  now  to  proceed,  Alonzo  could  not 
readily  decide*  To  return  to  his  native  place, 
appeared  to  be  as  useless  as  to  tarry  where  he  was. 
For  many  weeks  had  he  travelled  and  searched 
every  place  where  he  thought  it  probable  Melissa 
might  be  found,  both  among  her  relatives  and 
elsewhere.  He  had  made  every  effort  to  obtain 
some  clue  to  her  removal  from  the  old  mansion, 
but  he  could  learn  nothing  but  what  he  had  been 
told  by  John.  If  his  friends  should  ever  hear  of 
her,  they  could  not  inform  him  thereof,  as  no  one 
knew  where  he  was.  Would  it  not,  therefore,  be 
best  for  him  to  return  back,  and  consult  with  his 
friends  and  if  nothing  had  been  heard  of  her,  pur 
sue  some  other  mode  of  enquiry  ?  He  might,  at 
least,  leave  directions  wherq  his  friends  might 


120  *   ALONZO   AttB  MELISSA* 

write  to  him,  in  case  they  should  have  anything 
whereof  to  apprise  him. 

An  incident  tended  to  confirm  his  resolution. 
He  one   night  dreamed  that  he  was  sitting  in  a 
strange  house,  contemplating  on  his  present   sit 
uation,  when  Melissa  suddenly  entered  the  room. 
Her  appearance  was  more  pale,  sickly  and  dejec 
ted  thin  when  he  last  saw  her.    Her  elegant  form 
had  wasted  i'W.ty,  her  e\  es  were  sunk,  her  cheeks 
fallen,  her  lips  livid.     He  fancied  it  to  be  night  : 
she  htid  a  candle  in  her  hand,  smiling  languidly 
upon  him  ;  she  turned  and  went  out  of  the  room, 
beckoning  him  to  follow  :  he  thought  he  imme 
diately   arose   and    followed   her.       She    glided 
through  several  winding  rooms  and  at  length  he 
lost  stght  of  her,  and  the  light  gradually  fading 
away,   he  was  involved  in  deep  darkness.     He 
groped  along,  and  at  length  saw  a  faint,  distant 
glimmer,  the  course  of  which  he  pursued,  until 
lie  came  into  a  large  room,  hung  with  black  tapes 
try,  and  illuminated  by  a  number  of  bright  tapers. 
On  one  side  of  the  room  appeared  a  hearse,  on 
which  some  person  was  laid  ;  he  went  up  to  it  ; 
the  first  object  that  arrested  his  attention  was  the 
lovely  form    of   Melissa,  shrouded  in  th£   sable 
vestments  of  death  !     Cold  and  lifeless,  she  lay 
stretched  upon  the  hearse,  beautiful  even  in  dis 
solution  ;  the  dying  smile  of  complacency  had 
not  vet  deserted  her  cheek.     The  music  of  her 
voice  h  ;d  ceased  ;  her  fine  eyes  were  closed  for 
ever.     Insensible  to  objects  in   which  she  once, 
delighted  ;  to  afflictions  which  had  blasted  her 


AN*  MELISSA." 

blofcming  prospects,  and  drained  the  streams  o? 
life,  she  lay  like  blossomed  trees  of  spring,  over 
thrown  by  rude  and  boisterous  winds.  The  deep 
groans  which  convulsed  the  distracted  bosom, 
and  shocked  the  trembling  frame  of  Alonzo, 
broke  the  delusive  charm  ;  he  awoke,  rejoiced 
to  find  it  but  a  dream,  though  it  impressed  his 
mind  with  doleful  and  portentous  forebodings. 

It  was  a  long  time  before  he  could  again  clos6 
his  eyes  to  sleep  ;  he  at  length  fell  into  a  slum 
ber,  and  again  he  dreamed.  He  fancied  himself 
with  Melissa,  at  the  house  of  her  father,  who  had 
consented  to  their  union,  and  that  the  marriage 
ceremony  between  them  was  there  performed. -•- 
He  thought  that  Melissa  appeared  as  she  had 
done  in  her  most  fortunate  and  sprightly  days, 
before  the  darts  of  adversity,  and  the  thorns  of 
affliction,  had  wounded  her  heart.  Her  father 
seemed  to  be  divested  of  all  his  awful  sternness, 
and  gave  her  to  Alonzo  with  cheerful  freedom. 
He  awoke,  and  the  horrors  of  his  former  dream 
were  dissipated  by  the  happy  influences  of  the 
last. 

"  Who  knows  (he  said)  but  that  this  may  fi 
nally  be  the  case  ;  but  that  the  sun  of  peace  may 
yet  dispel  the  glooms  of  these  distressful  hours  !" 
He  arose,  determined  to  return  home  in  a  few 
days  ;  he  went  out  and  enjoyed  his  morning  walk 
in  a  more  composed  frame  of  spirits  than  he  had 
for  some  time  experienced.  He  returned,  and  as 
he  was  .entering  the  door  he  saw  the  weekly 
newspaper  of  the  town,  which  bad  been  publish- 

Q 


152  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA,^ 

ed  that  morning,  and  which  the  carrier  had  just1 
flung  into  the  hall.  The  family  hi-.d  not  yet  aris 
en.  He  took  up  the  paper,  carried  it  to  his  cham 
ber,  and  opened  it  to  read  the  news  of  the  day. 
He  ran  his  eye  hastily  over  it,  and  was  about  to 
lay  it  aside,  when  the  death  list  arrest t-d  his  at 
tention,  by  a  display  of  broad  black  li^es.  The 
first  article  he  read  therein  was  as  follows  : 

DIED,  of  a  consumption  on  the  26th  uit.  at  the 

seat  of  her  uncle,  Col.  W******  D ,  near 

Charleston  South-Carolina,  whither  she  had  re 
paired  for  her  health,  Miss  Melissa  D ,  the 

amiable    daughter  of  J#***   D ,   Esq.    of 

******#,.  Connecticut,  in  the  18th  year  of  her 
age. 

The  p;iper  fell  from  his  palsied  hand — a  sud 
den  faintneds  came  up^n  him — the  room  grew 
dark — he  staggered,  and  fell  senseless  upon  the 
floor 

The  incidents  of  our  story  will  here  produce  a 
pause. — The  fanciful  part  of  our  readers  may  cast 
it  aside  in  chagrin  and  disappointment.  "  Such 
an  event  (nv»y  they  say)  we  were  not  prepared  ta 
expect.  After  so  many,  and  such  various  trials 
of  heart ;  after  innumerable  difficulties  surmount 
ed  ;  almost  invincible  objects  overcome,  and  in 
superable  barriers  removed — after  attending  the 
hero  a^cl  heroine  of  your  tale  through  the  diver 
sified  scenes  of  anxiety,  suspense,  hope,  disap 
pointment,  expectation,  joy,  sorrow,  anticipated 
bliss,  sudden  ^iid  disastrous  woe — after  elevating 
a  to  the  threshold  of  happiness,  by  the  pre* 


ALON20  ANfi  MELIfci  122 

tnature  death  of  one,  to  plunge  the  other,  instan- 
taveouslv,  in  deep  and  irretrievable  despair,  must 
not,  cannot  be  right.  Your  story  will  hereafter 
become  languid  and  spiritless  ;  the  subject  will 
be  uninteresting:,  the  theme  unengaging,  since  tli6 
genius  which  animated  and  enlivened  it  ib  gone 
forever." 

Reader  of  {sensibility,  stop. — Are  we  not  de 
tailing  facts  ?  Shall  we  gloss  them  over  with  false 
colouring  ?  Shall  we  describe  things  as  they  are, 
or  as  they  are  not  ?  Shall  we  draw  with  the  pen- 
cil  of  nature,  or  of  art  ?  Do  we  indeed  paint  life 
as  it  is,  or  as  it  is  not  ?  Cast  thine  eyes,  reader, 
over  the  ephemeral  circle  of  passing  and  fortui 
tous  events  ;  view  the  change  of  contingencies  : 
mark  well  the  varied  and  shifting  scenery  in  the 
great  drama  of  time  ;  seriously  contemplate  na- 
t,ure  in  her  operations  :  minutely  examine  the 
entrance,  the  action,  and  the  exit  of  characters  on 
the  stage  of  existence-— then  say,  if  disappoint 
ment,  distress,  misery  and  calamitous  woe,  are 
not  the  inalienable  portion  of  the  susceptible  bo 
som.  Say,  if  the  possession  of  refined  feeling  is, 
enviable — the  lot  of  Nature's  children  covetable. 
Whether,  to  such,  through  life,  the,  sprinklings 
of  comfort  are  sufficient  to  give  a  zest  to  the  bit 
ter  banquets  of  adversity.  Whether  indeed, 
sorrow,  sighing,  and  tears,  are  not  the  inseparable 
attendants  of  all  those  whose  hearts  are  the  repos 
itories  of  tender  affections  and  pathetic  sympa 
thies.  But  what  says  the  moralist  ? — "  Portray 
life  as,  it  is*  Delude  not  the  senses  by  deceptive 


124  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA^ 

appearances.  Arouse  your  hero  :  call  to  his  aid 
stern  philosophy  and  sober  reason.  They  will 
dissipate  the  rainbow -glories  of  unreal  pleasure, 
and  banish  the  glittering  meteors  of  unsubstantial 
happiness.  Or  if  these  fail,  lead  him  to  the  holy 
fane  of  religion.  She  will  regulate  the  fires  of 
fancy,  and  assuage  the  tempest  of  the  passions. 
She  will  illuminate  the  dark  wilderness,  and 
smooth  the  thorny  paths  of  life.  She  will  point 
him  to  jcns  beyond  the  tomb — to  another  and  a 
better  world  ;  and  pour  the  balm  of  consolation 
and  serenity  over  his  wounded  soul." 

Shall  we  indeed  arouse  Alonzo  ?  Alas  1  t* 
ivhat  paths  of  grief  and  wretchedness  shall  we  a- 
jouse  him  !  To  a  world  to  him  void  and  cheer 
less — a  world  desolate,  sad  and  dreary. 

Alonzo  revived. — "  Why  am  I  (he  exclaimed) 
recalled  to  this  dungeon  of  torment  9  Why  wag 
Bot  my  spirit  permitted  to  take  its  flight  to  re 
gions  where  my  guardian  is  gone  ?  Why  am  I 
cursed  with  memory  ?  O  that  I  might  be  blessed 
ivith  forg^tfulness  !  But  why  do  I  talk  of  bles 
sings  ?  Heaven  never  had  one  in  store  for  me. 
Where  are  fled  my  anticipated  joys.?  To  the  bo 
som,  the  dark  bosom  of  the  oblivious  tomb  !  — 
There  lie  all  the  graces  worthy  of  love  in  life — 
all  the  virtues  worthy  of  lamentation  in  death. — . 
There  lies  perfection — perfection  has  here  been 
found.  Was  she  not  all  that  even  heaven  could 
demand  ?  Fair,  lovely,  holy  and  virtuous.  Her 
tender  solicitudes,  her  enrapturing  endearments, 
her  soul- inspiring  blandishments--- gone — gone 


&LON20 

forever  !  That  heavenly  form,  that  discriminate 
mind — all  lovely  as  light  all  pure  as  a  seraph's — 
a  prey  to  worms  —  mingle  d  with  incorporeal  shad 
ows,  regardless  of  former  inquietudes  or  delights, 
regardless  of  the  keen  angui&h  which  now  wrings 
tears  of  blood  from  my  despairing  heart !  Eter 
nal  Disposer  ol  events  !  if  virtue  be  thy  special 
care,  why  is  the  fairest  flower  in  the  garden  of  in 
nocence  and  purity  blasted  like  a  noxious  weed? 
Why  is  the  bright  gem  of  excellence  trampled 
in  the  dust  like  a  worthless  pebble  ?  Why  is 
Melissa  hurried  to  the  tomb  ?"'Thus  raved  A- 
lonzo.  It  was  evident  that  delirium  had  partial 
ly  seized  his  brain. 

He  arose  and  flung  himself  on  the  bed,  in  un 
speakable  agony.  "  And  what,  alas  !  (he  again 
exclaimed)  now  remains  for  me  ?  Existence  and 
unparalleled  misery.  The  consolation  etlen  of 
death  is  denied  me  !  But  Melissa  !  she— -ah  I 
where  is  she  ?  Oh  !  reflection  insupportable  !  in 
sufferable  consideration  !  Must  that  heavenly 
frame  putrify,  moulder,  and  crumble  into  dust  ? 
Must  the  loathsome  spider  nestle  on  her  lily  bo- 
sum  ?  the  odious  reptile  riot  on  her  delicate 
limbs  ?  the  worm  revel  amid  the  roses  of  her 
cheek,  fatten  on  her  temples,  and  bask  in  the 
lustre  of  her  eyes  ?  Alas  1  the  lustre  has  become 
dimmed  in  death  ;  the  rose  and  the  lily  are  with 
ered  ;  the  harmony  of  her  voice  has  ceased  ;  the 
graces,  the  elegancies  of  form,  the  innumerable 
delicacies  of  air,  all  are  gone,  and  I  am  left  in  a 
state  of  misery  which  defies  mitigation  or  com 
parison." 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

Exhausted  by  excess  of  grief,  be  now  lay  in  a 
jstupifying  anguish,  until  the  servant  summoned 
him  to  breakfast.  He  told  the  servant  he  was  in 
disposed,  and  requested  he  might  not  be  di^turb- 
cd.  Mr.  \V}llysand  his  ladv  camt-  up,  anxious 
to  yield  him  any  assistance  in  their  power,  and 
advised  him  to  call  a  physician.  He  thanked 
them,  but  told  them  it  was  unnecessary — he  on- 
Jy  wanted  rest.  His  extreme  distress  of  mind 
brought  on  a  relapse  of  fever,  from  which  he  had 
but  imperfectly  recovered.  For  several  days  he 
lay  in  a  very  dangerous  and  doubtful  sta'e.  A 
physician  was  called,  contrary  to  his  choice  or 
knowledge,  as  for  most  part  of  the  time  his  mind 
was  delirious  and  sensation  imperfect.  This 
was,  probably,  the  cause  of  baffl'ng  the  disoider. 
He  \\f-as  in  a  measure  insensible  to  his  woes.  He 
did  iwf  oppose  the  prescriptions  of  the  physician. 
The  fever  abated,  nature  triumphed  over  disease 
of  body — he  slowly  recovered,  but  the  malady  of 
his  mind  was  not  removed. 

He  contemplated  on  the  past.  "  I  fear  (said 
he)  I  have  murmured  against  the  wisdom  of 
Providence.  Forgive,  O  merciful  Creator  !  for 
give  the  frenzies  of  distraction  !"  He  now  re 
collected  that  Melissa  once  told  him  that  she  had 
an  uncle  who  resided  near  Charleston,  in  South- 
Carolina  ;*  thither  he  supposed  she  had  been 
sent  by  her  father,  when  she  was  removed  from 
the  old  mansion,  in  order  to  prevent  his  having 
access  to  her,  and  with  a  view  to  compel  her  to 

ee  page  39. 


A10N2O   ANt)   MELISSA* 

marry  Bcauman.  Her  appearance  had  indicated 
a  deep  clccli  e  whrn  he  last  saw  her.  '*  There, 
(said  hi)  f>r  removed  from  friends  and  acquaint 
ance,  there  did  she  languish,  there  did  she  die— • 
a  victim  to  excessive  grief,  and  cruel,  parental 
persecution. 

As  soon  as  he  was  able  to  leave  big  room,  he 
walked  out  one  evening,  and  in  deep  contempla 
tion  roved,  he  knew  not  where.  The  moon 
shone  brilliantl)  from  her  lofty  throne  ;  the  chill, 
heavy  dews  of  autumn  glittered  on  the  decaying 
verdure.  The  cadeat*  croaked  hoarsely  among 
the  trees  ;  the  dircle\  sung  mournfully  on  the 
grass.  Alonzo  heard  them  not  ;  he  was  insen 
sible  to  all  external  objects,  until  he  had  imper 
ceptibly  wandered  to  the  rqck  on  the  point  of  the 
beach,  verging  the  Sound,  to  which  he  jiad  at 
tended  Melissa  the  first  time  he  saw  her  at  her 
cousin's.  J  Had  the  whole  artillery  of  Heaven 
burst,  in  sheeted  flame,  from  the  skies — had  ra 
ging  winds .  mingled  the  roaring  waves  with  the 
mountain* — had  an  instantaneous  earthquake 
burst  beneath  his  feet,  his  frame  would  not  have 
fceen  so  shocked,  his  soul  so  agitated  !  Sudden 

*  t  Local  iidraes  given  to  certain  American  insects,  from 
their  sound.  They  are  well  known  in  various  parts  of  the 
United  States  ;  generally  make  their  appearance  about  the 
latter  end  of  August,  and  continue  until  destroyed  by  the 
frost.  The  notes  of  the  first  are  hoarse,  sprightly,  and  dis 
cordant  j  of  the  last,  solemn  and  mournfully  pleasing, 

\  See  page  7      See  also  allusions  to  this  seene,  in  several 
parts  of  the  story. 


128  ALONZO  AND  JlfELISSA* 

as  the  blaze  darts  from  the  electric  cloud  was  he 
aroused  to  a  lively  sense  of  blessings  entombed! 
The  meqiory  of  departed  joys  passed  with  rapid 
ity  over  his  imagination  ;  his  first  meeting  with 
Melissa  ;   the  evening  he  hdd  attended  her  to  that 
place  ,  her  frequent  allusions  to  the  scenerv  there 
displayed,  when  they  had  traversed  the  fit  Ids  or 
reclined  in<the  bower   oh,  her  favourite  hill  ;  in 
fin«",  all  the  vicissitudes  through  which  they  had 
passed,  were  recalled  to  his  mind.   His  fancy  saw 
her,  felt  her  gently  leaning  on  his  arm,   while  he 
tremblingly  pressed   her  hand.     Again  he  saw 
smilin/  health  crimsoning  the  lilies  of  her  cheek  ; 
again  he  siw  the  bright  soul  of  sym pathetic  feel 
ings  sparkling  in  her  eye — the    air  of  ease — the 
grace    of  attitude — her  brown  locks  circling  the 
borders  of  her  snowy  robe.    Again  he  was  enrap 
tured  by   the  melody  of  her  voice.     Oiicc  more 
would  he  have  been  happy,  had  not  fancy  chang 
ed  the  scene.      Bur  -ilas  !  she  shifted  the  curtain. 
He  saw  Melissa  stretched  on   the    sable    hearse, 
wrapped  in  the  dreary  vestments  of  the  grave — 
the  roses  withered — the  lilies  faded — motionless 
— the  graces  fled — he*-  e res  fixed,  and   sealed  in 
the  gl  >ze  of  death  !   Spontaneously   he  fell  upon 
his  knees,  and  thus  poured  forth  the  overcharged 
burden  of  its  anguished  bosom  : 

"  Infinite  Ruler  of  all  events  ;  Great  Sove 
reign  of  this  ever  changing  world  !  Omnipotent 
Controller  of  vicissitudes  !  Omniscient  Dispen 
ser  of  destinies  !  The  beginning,  the  progres 
sion,  the  end  is  thine.  Unsearchable  «.ir«  thy  pur* 


4LONZ6  ANd  MELISSA* 

poses  !  mysterious  thy  movements  !  inscrutable 
thy  operations  !  An  atom  of  thy  creation,  wilder- 
ed  in  the  mazes  of  ignorance  and  woe,  would 
bow  to  thy  decrees.  Surrounded  with  impene 
trable  gloom,  unable  to  scrutinize  the  past,  in 
competent  to  explore  the  future — fain  would  he 
say,  THY  WILL  BE  DONE!  And  O  !  that  it  might 
be  consistent  with  that  HIGH  WILL,  to  call  this 
atom  from  a  dungeoii  of  wretchedness,  to  worlds 
of  light  and  gtory,  where  his  only  CONSOLATION 
ii>  gone." 

Thus  prayed  the  heart-broken  Alonzo.  It  was 
indeed  a  worldly  prayer  ;  but  perhaps  as  pure 
and  as  acceptable  as  many  of  our  modern  profes 
sors  would  have  made  on  a  similar  occasion. — 
He  arose  and  repaired  to  his  lodgings.  One  de 
termination  only  he  h  ?d  now  fallen  upon — to  bu 
ry  himself  and  his  griefs  from  all  with  whom  he 
had  formerly  been  acquainted.  ^Why  should  he 
return  to  the  scenes  of  his  former  bliss  and  anxi 
ety,  where  every  countenance  would  tend  to  re 
new  his  mourning,  where  every  door  would  be 
inscribed  with  a  memento  mori,  and  where  every 
object  would  be  shrouded  in  crape  ? He  there 
fore  turned  his  attention  to  the  army  ;  but  the 
army  was  far  distant,  and  he  was  too  feeble  to 
prosecute  a  journey  of  snch  an  extent. 

There  were  at  that  time  preparations  for  fitting 
out  a  convoy,  at  private  expense,  from  various 
parts  of  the  United  States,  f>r  the  protection  of 
our  European  trade  ;  they  were  to  rendezvous-, 

at  a  certain  station,  and  thence  proceed  with  the 

R 


130  A1QNZO  AND  ilELISSA, 

merchantmen  under  their  care  to  the  ports  of 
France  and  Holland,  where  our  trade  principally 
centered,  and  return  as  convoy  to  some  other 
mercantile  fleet. 

One  of  these  ships  of  war  was  then  nearly  fit 
ted  out  at  New- London.  Alonzo  offered  himself 
to  the  captain,  wiio,  pleased  with  his  appearance, 
gave  him  the  station  of  commander  of  marines. 

Alonzo  prepared  himself  with  all  speed  for  the 
voyage.  He  sought,  he  wished  no  acquaintance, 
His  only  place  of  resort,  except  to  his  lodgings 
and  the  ship,  was  to  Melissa's  favourite  rock  ; — - 
there  he  bowed  as  to  the  shrine  of  her  spirit,  and 
there  he  consecrated  his  devotions. 

~As  he  was  one  day  passing  through  the  town, 
a  gentleman  stepped  out  of  an  adjoining  house 
and  accosted  him.  Alonzo  immediately  recog 
nized  him  to  be  the  cousin  of  Melissa,  at  whose 
house  he  had  first  seen  her.  He  was  dressed  in 
full  mourning,  which  was  a  sufficient  indication 
that  he  was  apprized  of  her  death.  He  invited 
Alonzo  to  his  house  and  he  could  not  complai- 
santly  refuse  the  invitation.  He  therefore  ac 
cepted  it,  and  passed  an  hour  with  him,  from 
whom  he  learnt  that  Melissa  had  been  sent  to  her 
uncle's*  at  Charleston,  for  the  recovery  of  her 
health,  where  she  died.  "  Her  premature  death 
(said  her  cousin)  has  borne  so  heavily  upon  her 
aged  father,  that  it  is  feared  he  will  not  long  sur 
vive."  "  'Well  may  it  wring  his  bosom  ;  (thought 
Alonzo)  his  conscience  can  never  be  at  peace. :i 
'<••!. issu's  cousin  had  been  inforrac> 


£LON20  AND  MELISSA. 

the  particulars  of  Alonzo's  unfortunate  attach 
ment,  was  not  known,  as  he  instituted  no  con- 
versation  on  the  subject.  Neither  did  he  enquire 
into  Alonzo's  prospects  ;  he  only  invited  him  to 
call  again.  Alonzo  thanked  him,  but  replied  it 
would  be  doubtful,  as  h&  should  shortly  leave 
town.  He  made  no  one  acquainted  with  his  in 
tentions. 

The  day  at  length  arrived  when  the  shjp  was 
to  sail,  and  Alonzo  to  leave  the  shores  of  Amer- 
ioa  They  spread  their  canvas  to  propitious 
gales  ;  the  breezes  rushed  from  their  woody  cov 
erts,  and  majestically  wafted  them  from  the  har 
bour. 

Slowly  the  land  receded  ;  fields,  forests,  hills, 
mountains,  towns  and  villages  leisurely  withdrew, 
until  they  were  -mingled  in  one  common  mass. 
The  ocean  opening,  expanded  and  widened,  pre 
senting  to  the  astonished  eyes  of  the  untried  mar- 
iner  its  wilderness  of  waters.  Near  sunset,  A- 
lonzo  ascended  the  mast  to  take  a  last  view  of  a 
country  once  so  dear,  but  whose  charms  were 
now  lost  forever.  The  land  still  appeared  like  a 
semicircular  border  of  dark  green  velvet  on  the 
edge  of  a  convex  mirror.  The  sun  sunk  in  fleecy 
golden  vapours  behind  it.  It jpiow  dwindled  to 
discoloured  and  irregular  spots,  which  appeared 
like  objects  floating,  amidst  the  blue  mists  of 
distance,  on  the  verge  of  the  mai'i,  and  immoiH* 
ately  all  was  lost  beneath  the  spherical,  watery 
surface.  ' 


132  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA* 

- Alonzo  had  fixed  his  eyes,  as  near  as  his  judg- 
merit  could  direct,  towards  Melissa's  favourite 
rock,  till  nothing  but  sea  was  discoverable.  Witk 
a  heart  parting  sigh  he  then  descended.  They 
had  now  launched  into  the  illimitable  world  of 
billows,  and  the  sable  wings  of  night  brooded 
over  the  boundless  deep. 

A  new  scene  was  now  opened  to  Alonzo  in  the 
wonders  of  the  mighty  deep.  The  sun  rising 
from  and  setting  in  the  ocean,  the  wide  spread  re 
gion  of  watery  waste,  now  smooth  as  polished 
glass,  now  urged  into  irregular  rolling  hillocks, 
then  swelled  to 

"  Blue  tumbling  billows,  topp'd  with  foam." 

or  gradually  arising  into  mountainous  waves. 
Often  would  he  traverse  the  deck  amid  the  still 
hours  of  midnight,  when  the  moon  silvered  over 
the  liquid  surface  :  "  Bright  luminary  of  the 
lonely  hour,  (he  would  sa\ )  that  now  sheddest 
thy  mild  and  placid  ray  on  the  woe- worn  head  of 
fortune's  fugitive,  d  >st  thou  not  also  pensively 
shine  on  the  sacred  and  silent  grave  of  my  Me 
lissa  ?" 

Favourable  breezes  wafted  them  for  many  days 
over  the  bosom  of  the  Atlantic.  At  length  they 
were  overtaken  by  a  violent  storm.  The  wind 
began  to  blow  strongly  from  the  southwest,  which 
soon  increased  tfl>  a  violent  gale.  The  dirgy 
scud  first  flew  swiftly  along  the  sky  ;  then  dark 
and  heavy  clouds  filled  the  atmosphere,  mingling 
xviUi  the  top- gallant  streamers  of  the  ship.  Night 
hovered  over  the  ocean,  rendered  horrible  by  the 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA* 

intermitting  blaze  of  lightnings,  the  awful  crash 
of  thunder,  and  the  deafening  roar  of  winds  and 
W^ves.  The  sea  wus  rolled  into  mountains,  cap 
ped  with  foaming  fire.  Now  the  ship  was  soar- 
ing  among  the  thunders  of  heaven,  now  sunk  in 
the  ab)  ss  of  waters. 

The  storm  dispersed  the  fleet,  so  that  when  it 
abated,  the  ship  in  which  Alonzo  sailed  was  found 
alone  ;  they,  however,  kept  on  their  course  of 
destination,  after  repairing  the4r  rigging,  which 
had "been  considerably  disordered  by  the  violence 
of  the  gale. 

The  next  morning  they  discovered  a  sail  which 
they  fondly  hoped  might  prove  to  be  one  of  their 
own  fleet,  and  accordingly  made  for  it.  The  ship 
they  were  in  pursuit  of  shortened  sail>  and  to 
wards  noon,  wore  round  and  bore  down  upon 
them  when  they  discovered  thvit  it  was  not  a  ship 
belonging  to  their  convoy.  It  appeared  to  be  of 
equai  force  and  dimensions  with  hat  of  their  own, 
they  therefore,  in  order  to  prepare  for  the  worst, 
got  ready  with  ail  speed  for  action.  They  slowly 
approached  each  other,  manceuvreirig  for  the  ad 
vantage,  till  the  strange  ship  ran  up  British  col 
ours,  and  fifed  a  gun,  which  was  immediately  an 
swered  by  the  other,  undt  r  the  flag  of  the  United 
States.  It  was  not  long  before  a  close  and  severe 
action  took  place,  which  continued  for  three 
hour?,  when  both  ships  were  in  so  shattered  a 
condition  thatthey  were  unable  to  manage  a  gun.* 

/ 

*Vhe  particulars  of  this  action,  in  the  early  stage  t>f  the 
American  war,  are  yet  remembered  by  many. 


134  ALON'ZO  AND  MELISSA. 

The  British  had  lost  their  captain,  and  one  half 
their  crew,  most  of  the  remainder  being  wounded. 
The  Americans  had  lost  their  second  officer, 
and  their  loss  in  men,  both  killed  and  wounded, 
was  nearly  equal  to  that  of  the  enemy.  While 
they  lay  in  this  condition,  unable  either  to  onnoy 
each  ether  more,  or  to  get  away,  a  large  sail  ap 
peared,  bearing  down  upon  them,  which  soon 
came  up  and  proved  to  be  an  English  frigate,  and 
•which  immediately  took  the  American  ship  in 
tow,  after  removing  the  crew  into  the  hold  of  the 
frigate.  The  crew  of  the  British  ship  were  also 
taken  on  board  of  the  frigate,  which  \vas  no  soon 
er  done  than  the  ship  went  down,  and  was  forev 
er  buried  beneath  mountains  of  ponderous  waves. 
The  frigate  then  with  the  American  ship  in  tow, 
made  sail,  and  in  a  few  days  reached  England. 
The  wounded  prisoners  were  sent  to  a  hospital, 
but  the  others  were  confined  in  a  strong  prison 
within  the  precincts  of  London. 

The  American  prisoners  were  huddled  into  a» 
apartment  with  British  convicts  of  various  de 
scriptions.  Among  these  Alonzo  observed  one 
whose  demeanor  arrested  his  attention.  A  deep 
melancholy  was  impressed  upon  his  features  4 
his  eye  was  wild  and  despairing  ;  his  figure  was 
interesting,  tall,  elegant  and  handsome.  He  ap 
peared  to  be  about  twenty-five  years  of  age.  He 
seldom  conversed,  but  when  he  did,  it  was  readi 
ly  discovered  that  his  education  had  been  above 
the  common  cast,  and  vlie  possessed  an  enlight 
ened  and  discriminating  mind.  Alonzo 


*    AtONZO  AND  MELISSA"  135 

thetically  sought  his  acquaintance,  and  discover 
ed  therein  a  unison  of  woe. 

One  evening  when  the  prisoners  were  retired 
to  rest,  the  stranger,  upon  Alonzo's  request,  re 
hearsed  the  following  incidents  of  his  life. 

"  You  express  (said  he)  some  surprise  at  find 
ing  a  man  of  my  appearance  in  so  degraded  a  sit 
uation,  and  you  wish  to  learn  the  events  which 
have  plung<  d  me  in  this  abject  state.  These," 
when  1  briefly  relate,  your  wonder  will  cease. 

"  My  name  is  Henry  Malcomb  ;  my  lather 
was  a  clergyman  in  the  west  of  England,  and  des 
cended  from  one  of  the  most  respectable  families 
in  those  parts.  I  received  a  classical  education, 
and  then  entered  the  military  school,  as  I  was  de 
signed  for  the  army,  to  which  my  earliest  incli 
nations  led.  As  soon  as  my  education  was  con 
sidered  complete,  an  ensign's  commission  was 
procured  for  me  in  one  of  the  regiments  destined 
for  the  West  Indies.  Previous  to  its  departure 
for  those  islands,  I  became  acquainted  with  a 
Miss  Vernon,  who  was  a  few  years  younger  than, 
myself,  and  the  daughter  of  a  gentleman  farmer, 
\vho  had  recently  purchased  and  removed  to  an 
estate  in  my  father's  parish.  Every  thing  that 
was  graceful  and  lovely  appeared  centered  in  nei 
person  ;  every  thing  that  was  virtuous  arid  ex 
cellent  in  her  mind.  I  sought  her  hand.  Our 
souls  soon  became  united  by  the  indissoluble 
bonds  of  sincerest  love,  and  as  there  were  no  pa 
rental  or  other  impediment  to  our  union,  it  was 
agreed  that  as  soon  as  I  returned  from  the  In- 


136  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA." 

\ 

dies,  where  it  was  expected  that  my  stay  would 
be  short,  the  marriage  solemnities  should  be  per 
formed.  Solemn  oaths  of  constancy  passed  be 
tween  us,  and  I  sailed,  with  my  regiment,  for 
the  Indies. 

"  While  there,  I  received  from  her, 'and  return 
ed  letters  filled  with  the  tenderest  expressions  of 
anxiety  and  regret  of  absence.  At  leng  h  the 
time  came  when  we  were  to  embark  for  Eng- 
L.iid,  where  we  arrived  after  an  absence  of 
about  eighteen  months.  The  moment  I  got  on 
land  I  hastened  to  the  house  of  Mr.  Vernon,  to 
see  the  charmer  of  my  soul.  She  received  me 
with  all  the  ardency  of  affection,  and  even  shed 
tears  of  joy  in  my  presence.  I  pressed  her  to 
name  the  day  which  was  to  perfect  our  union  and 
happiness,  and"  the  next  Sunday,  four  days  only 
distant,  was  agreed  upon  for  me  to  lead  her  to 
the  altar.  How  did  my  heart  bound  at  the  pros 
pect  of  making  Miss,  Vernon  my  own  !  Of  pos 
sessing  in  her  al*  inn  could  render  life  agreeable  I 
1  hastened  home  to  my  family  and  informed  them 
of  my  approaching  bli^s,  who  <«i!  sympathised  in 
the  Anticipated  joy  whi-'.h  swelled  .my  bosom. 

tk  I  had  a  sister  some  years  older  than  myself, 
who  had  been  the  friend  and  inmate  of  my  angel 
in  i;iv  absence.  They*  were  now  almost  every 
d.v  i  gether,  so  rhut  1  had  frequently  opportuni 
ties  of  her  company.  O  *e  day  she  had  been  with 
my  sister  at  my  father's,  and  I  attended  her 
home.  O,i  my  return,  my  sister  requested  me 
to  attend  her  in  a  private  room.  We  therefore: 


AND  MELISSA.  137 

retired,  and  when  we  were  seated  she  thus  ad 
dressed  me  : 

"  Henry,  you  know  that  to  promote  your  peace, 
your  welfare  and  your  happiness,  has  ever  been 
the  pride  of  my  heart.  Nothing  except  'this 
could  extort  the  secret  which  I  shall  now  disclose, 
and  which  has  yet  remained  deposited  in  my  own 
bosom  :  my  duty  to  a  brother  whom  I  esteem 
de#r  as  life,  forbids  me  to  remain  silent.  As  an 
affectionate  sister,  I  cannot  tacitly  see  you  thus 
imposed  upon  ;  I  cannot  see  you  the  dupe  and 
slave  of  an  artful  and  insidious  woman,  who  does 
not  sincerely  return  your  love  ;  nor  can  I  bear  to 
see  your  marriage  consummated  with  one  whosfc 
soul  and  affections  are  placed  upon  another  ob- 
ject." 

"  Here  she  hesitated — while  I,  with  insuffera 
ble  anguish  of  mind,  begged  her  to  proceed. 

"  About  six  or  eight  months  after  your  depar 
ture,  (she  continued)  it  was  reported  to  Miss 
Vernon  that  she  had  a  rival  in  the  Indies  ;  that 
you  had  there  found  an  American  beauty,  on  whom 
you  lavished  those  endearments  which  belonged 
of  right  to  her  alone.  This  news  made,  at  first, 
a  deep  impression  on  her  mind,  but  it  soon  wore 
away  ;  and  whether  from  this  cause,  from  fickle 
ness  of  disposition,  or  that  she  never  sincerely 
loved  you,  I  know  not,  but  this  I  do  know>  that  a 
youth  has  been  for  some  time  past  her  almost 
constant  companion.  To  convince  you  of  this, 
you  need  only  tomorrow  evening,  about  sunset, 
conceal  yourself  near  the  long  avenue  by  the  side 


ALONZO  AN0  MELISSA. 

of  the  rivulet,  back  of  Mr.  Vernon's  country- 
house,  where  you  will  undoubtedly  surprise  Miss 
Vernon  and  her  companion  in  their  usual  eve 
ning's  walk.  If.  I  should  be  mistaken  I  will  sub 
mit  to  your  censure  ;  but  should  you  find  it  as  I 
have  predicted,  you  have  only  to  rush  from  your 
concealment  charge  her  with  her  perfidy,,  and. 
renounce  her  forever." 

M  Of  all  the  plagues,  of  all  the  torments,  of  all 
the  curses  which  torture  the  soul,  jealousy  of  a 
rival  in  love  is  the  worst.  Enraged,  confounded 
and  astonished,  it  seemed  as  if  my  bosom  would 
.have  instantaneously  burst.  To  conceal  my  e- 
motioiis,  I  left  my  sister's  apartment  after  hav 
ing  thanked  her  for  her  information,  and  proceed 
ed  to  obey  her  injunctions.  I  retired  to  my  own 
room,  and  there  poured  out  my  execrations. 

c*  Cursed  woman  !  [I  exclaimedj'is  it  thnsyou 
requite  my  tender  love  !  Could  a  vague  report 
of  my  inconstancy,  drive  you  to  infidelity  !  Did 
not  my  continual  letters  breathe  constant  adora 
tion  ?  And  did  not  yours  portray  the  same  sin 
cerity  of  affection  ?  No,  it  was  not  that  which 
caused  you  to  perjure  your  plighted  vows.  It 
was  that  damnable  passion  for  novelty,  which 
more  or  less  holds  a  predominacy  over  your 
whole  sex.  To  a  new  coat,  a  new  face,  a  new 
lover,  you  will  sacrifice  honor,  principle  and  vir 
tue.  And  to  those,  backed  by  splendid  power 
and  splendid  property,  you  will  forfeit  vour  most 
sacred  engagements,  though  made  in  the  pres 
ence  of  Heaven."  Thus  did  I  rave  through  » 
rJeepless  night 


ALONZO   AND  MELISSA!  139 

*'  The  next  day  I  walked  into  the  .fields,  and 
before  the  time  my  sister  appointed  had  arrived, 
I  had  worked  up  my  feelings  almost  to  the  fren 
zy  of  distraction.  I  repaired,  however,  to  the 
spot,  and  concealed  myself  in  the  place  she  had 
named,  which  was  a  tuft  of  laurels  by  the  side  of 
the  walk.  .  I  soon  perceived  Miss  Vernon  stroll 
ing  down  the  avenue,  arm  in  arm  with  a  young 
man  elegantly  dressed,  and  of  singular  delicate 
appearance.  They  were  earnestly  conversing  in 
a  low  tone  of  voice  ;  the  hand  of  my  false  fair 
one  was  gently  pressed  in  the  hand  of  the  stranr 
ger.  As  soon  as  they  had  passed  the  place  of 
my  concealment,  they  turned  aside  and  seated 
themselves  in  a  little  arbour,  a  few  yards  distant 
from  where  I  was.  The  stranger  clasped  Miss 
Vernon  in  his  arms  ;  "  dearest  angel  I  (he  ex 
claimed)  what  an  interruption  to  our  bliss  by  the 
return  of  my  hated  rival  !"  With  fond  caresses 
and  endearing  blandishments,  <e  fear  nothing,  (she 
replied)  I  have  promised  and  must  yield  him  my 
hand,  but  you  shall  never  be  excluded  from  my 
heart :  we  shall  find  sufficient  opportunities  for 
private  conference. "~~  I  could  contain  myself  no 
longer — my  brain  was  on  fire.  Quick  as  light 
ning  I  sprang  from  my  covert,  and  presenting  a 
pistoU  which  I  had  concealed  under  my  robe, 
"  Die  !  (said  I)  thou  false  and  perjured  wretch, 
by  the  hand  thou  hast  dishonoured,  a  death  too 
mild  for  so  foul  a  crime  !"  and  immediately  shot 
Miss  Vernon  through  the  head,  who  fell  lifeless 
at  my  feet !  Then  suddenly  drawing  my  sword, 


140  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

:<  And  thou  perfidious  contaminator  and  destroy 
er  of  my  bliss  !  (cried  I)  go  !  attend  thy  com 
panion  in  iniquity  to  the  black  regions  of  ever 
lasting  torment  I"  So  saying,  I  plunged  my 
sword  into  his  bosom.  A  screech  of  agony,  at 
tended  by  the  exclamation,  "  Henry  !  your  wife  ! 
ijQiir  sister  /"  awoke  me,  too  late,  to  terrors  un- 
iitterable,  to  anguish  unspeakable,  to  woes  irre 
trievable,  and  insupportable  despair  !  It  was  in 
deed  my  betrothed  wife,  it  was  indeed  my  aft'ec- 
tionate7sister,  arrayed  in  man's  habit.  The  one 
lay  dead  before  me — -the  other  weltering  ia  her 
blood  !  With  a  feeble  and  expiring  voice,  my 
sister  informed  me,  that  in  a  gay  and  inconside 
rate  moment  they  had  'concerted  this  plan,  to  try 
•my  jealousy,  determining  to  discover  themselves 
as  soon  as  they  had  made  the  experiment.  "  I 
forgive  you,  Henry,  (sjie  said)  I  forgive  your 
mistake/'  and  closed  her  eyes  forever  in  death  ! 
What  a  scene  for  sensibilities  like  mine  !  To 
paint  or  describe  it  exceeds  the  power  of  lan 
guage  or  imagination.  I  instantly  turned  the 
sword  against  my  own  bosom,  an  unknown  hand 
arrested  it,  and  prevented  its  entering  my  heart. 
The  report  of  the  pistol,  and  the  dying  screech 
of  my  sister,  had  alarmed  Mr.  Yemen's  family, 
•who  arrived  at  that  moment,  cne  of  whom  had 
seized  my  arm,  and  thus  hindered  me  from  de 
stroying  my  own  life.  £  submitted  to  be  bound 
and  conveyed  to  prison.  My  trial  came  on  at 
the  last  assizes  ;  1  made  no  defence  ;  was  con 
demned  to  death.  My  execution  will  take  place 


ALONZO   AKD  MELISSA.  141 

in  eight  weeks  from  to-morrow.  I  shall  cheer- 
fully  meet  my  fate,  for  who  would  endure  life 
when  rendered  so  peculiarly  miserable  !" 

The  wretched  Malcomb  here  ended  his  tale"bf 
woe.  No  tear  moistened  his  eye  ;  his  grief  was 
tos-despairing  for  tears  :  it  preyed  upon  his  heart, 
drank  the  vital  streams  of  life,  and  burst  in  con 
vulsive  sighs  from  his  burning  bosom. 

Alonzo  seriously  contemplated  on  the  incidents 
and  events  of  this  tragical  story.  Conscience 
whispered  him,  are  not  Malcomb's  miseries  su 
perior  to  thine  ?  Candour  and  correct  reason 
must  have  answered  yes.  "  Melissa  perished, 
(said  Alonzo)  but  not  by  the  hand  of  her  lover — 
she  expired,  but  not  through  the  mistaken  fren 
zy  of  him  who  adored  her.  She  died,  conscious 
of  the  unfeigned  love  I  bore  her." 

Alonzo  and  his  fellow-prisoners  had  been  rob 
bed,  when  they  were  captured,  of  every  thing 
except  the  clothes  they  wore.  Their  allowance 
of  provisions  was  scanty  and  poor.  They  were* 

confined  in  the  third  story  of  a  lofty  prison.- 

Time  rolled  away  ;  no  prospects  appeared  of 
their  liberation,  either  by  exchange  or  parole. 
Some  of  the  prisoners  were  removed,  as  new 
ones  were  introduced,  to  other  places  of  confine 
ment,  until  not  one  American  was  left  except  A- 
lonzo. 

Meantime  the  day  appointed  for  the  execution 
of  Malcomb  drew  near.  His  past  and  approach*, 
in^  fite  filled  the  breast  of  Alonzo  with  sympa 
thetic  sorrow.  He  saw  his  venerable  father,  his 


142  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

mother,  his  ti lends  and  acquaintance,  with  seve 
ral  pious  clergymen,  frequently  enter  the  prison 
to  console  and  comfort  him  and  to  prepare  him 
fer  the  unchangeable  state,, on  which  he  was  soon 
to  enter.  He  saw  his  mind  softened  by  their  ad 
vice  and  counsel  ;  frequently  would  he  burst  in 
to  tears  ;  often  in  the  solitary  hours  of  n.ght  was 
he  heard  addressing  the  throne  of  grace  for  mer 
cy  and  forgiveness.  But  the  grief  i  hat  preyed  at 
his  heart  had  wasted  him  to  a  skeleton  ;  a  slow 
but  deleterious  fever  had  consequently  implanted 
itself  in  his  constitution.  Exhausted  nature 
could  make  but  a  weak  struggle  against  disease 
and  affliction  like  his,  and  about  a  week  previous 
to  the  day  appointed  for  his  execution,  he  expir 
ed  in  peace  and  penitence  trusting  in  the  mercy 
of  his  Creator  through  the  sufferings  of  a  Re 
deemer. 

Soon  after  this  event,  orders  came  for  remov 
ing  some  of  the  prisoners  to  a  most  loathsome 
place  of  confinement,  in  the  suburbs  of  the  city. 
It  fell  to  Alonzo's  lot  to  be  one.  He  therefore 
formed  a  project  for  escaping.  He  Iv.d  observed 
that  the  gratings  in  one  of  the  windows  of  the  a* 
partment  were  loose  andcouid  easily  be  removed. 
One  night  when  the  prisoners  were  asleep,  he 
stripped  oft'  his  clothes,  every  article  of  which  he 
cut  into  narrow  slips,  tied  them  together,  fasten 
ed  one  end  to  one  of  the  strongest  gratings,  re 
moved  the  others  until  he  had  made  an  opening* 
large  enough  to  get  out,  and  then,  by  the  rope 
he  had  made  of  his  clothes,  let  himself  down  int* 


ALONZtT  AND  M£LJSSA.~  14$ 

the  j^rd  of  the  prison.  There  he  found  a  long 
piece  of  timber,  which  he  dragged  to  the  wall, 
clambered  up  thereon,  and  sprang  over  into  tho 
street.  Hi*  shoes  and  hat  he  had  left  in  the 
prison,  as  a  useless  encumbranee  without  his 
clothes,  all  which  he  had  converted  into  the  means* 
of  escape,  so  that  he  was  now  literally  stark  na 
ked.  He  stood  a  moment  to  reflect.  "  Here  am 
I,  (said  he)  freed  from  my  local  prison  indeed, 
but  in  the  midst  of  an  enemy's  country,  without 
a  friend,  without  the  means  of  obtaining  one  day's 
subsistence,  surrounds  d  by  the  darkness  of  night, 
destitute  of  a  single  article  of  clothing,  and  even 
unable  to  form  a  resolution  what  step  next  to 
take.  The  ways  of  heaven  are  marvellous — may 
I  silently  bow  to  its  dispensations  !" 

Alonzo  passed  along  the  street  in  this  forlorn 
condition,  not  knowing  where  to  proceed,  or  what 
course  to  take  It  was  about  three  o'clock  in  the 
morning  ;  the  street  was  illuminated  by  lamps, 
and  he  feared  falling  into  the  hands  of  the  watch. 
For  .some  time  he  saw  no  person,  at  length  a  voice 
from  the  other  side  of  the  street  called  out,— 
"  Hallo  !  messmate  ;  what,  scudding  wider  hate 
poles  ?  'Tou  must  have  experienced  a  severe  gale 
indeed  thus  to  have  carried  away  every  rag  of 
sail !"  Alonzo  turned,  and  saw  the  person  who 
spoke.  He  was  a  decent  looking  man,  of  mid 
dle  age,  drest  in  a  sailor's  habit.  Alonzo  had 
often  heard  <ftf  the  generosity  and  honourable 
conduct  of  the  British  tars  ;  he  therefore 
proached  him  and  told  him  his  real  case,  not  c 


144  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

concealing,  his  being  taken  in  actual  hostility  to 
the  British  government,  and  his  escape  from  pris 
on.     The  sailor  mused  a  few  minutes.     "  Thy 
case  (said  he)  is  a  little  critical,  but  do  not  des 
pair  ;  had  I  met  thee  as  an  enemy,  I  should  have 
fought'thee,   but  as  it  is,   compassion  is  the  first 
consideration.     Perhaps  I  may  be  in  as  bad  a  sit 
uation  before  the  war  is  ended."     Then  slipping 
ofFhis  coat  and  giving  it  to  Alonzo,  "  follow  me," 
he  said,  and   turning,  walked  hastily  along   the 
street,  followed  by  Alonzo  ;  he  passed  into  a  by- 
lane,  entered  a  small  house,  and  taking  Alonzo 
into  a  back  room,  opened  a  trunk,  and  handed  out 
a  shirt— "  there  (said  he,  pointing  to  a  bed)  you 
can  sleep  till  morning,  when  we  will  see  what  can 
be  done." 

The  next  morning  the  sailor  brought  in  a  very 
decent  suit  of  clothes  and  presented  them  to  A- 
lonzo      '   You  will   make  this  place  jour  home 
(said  he)  until  more  favourable  prospects  appear. 
In  this  great  city  you  will  be  safe,  for  even  your 
late  gaoler  would  not  recognize  you  in  this  dress/ 
And  perhaps  some    opportunity    may    offer  by 
which  you  mjiy  return  to  your  own  country." 
He  told  Alonzo  that  his  name   was  Jack  Brown, 
that  he  was  a  midshipman  on  board  the  Severn, 
that  he  had  a  uife  and  four   children,  and  owned 
the  hou:;e  in  which   they  then  were.     "  In  order 
to  prevent    suspicion   or   discovery    [said  he])  I 
shall  consider  yon  as  a  relation  from  the  country 
until  you  are  better  provided  for.5'     Alonzo  was 
then  introduced  to  the   sailor's  wife,  an  amiable 


4LONZO  AND  MELISSA.  145 

woman,  and  here  he  remained  for  several  weeks. 

Oaeday  Alonzo  was  informed  that  a  number 
of  American  prisoners  were  brought  in.  He 
went  to  the  place  where  they  were  landed,  and 
saw  several  led  away  to  prison,  and  some  who 
were  sick  or  disabled,  carried  to  the  hospital.— 
As  the  hospital  was  near  at  hand,  Alonzo  entered 
it  to  see  how  the  sick  and  disabled  prisoners  were 
treated. 

He  found  that  they  received  as  much  attention 
as  could  reasonably  be  expected.*  As  he  passed 
along  the  different  apartments  he  was  surprised 
at  hearing  his  name  called  by  a  faint  voice.  He 
turned  to  the  place  from  whence  it  proceeded, 
and  saw  stretched  on  a  mattress,  a  person  who 
Appeared  on  the  point  of  expiring.  His  visage 
was  pale  and  emaciated  his  countenance  haggard 
and  ghastly,  his  ey^s  inexpressive  and  glazy.  He 
held  out  his  withered  hand,  and  feebly  beckoned 
to  Alonzo,  who  immediately  approached  him. — 
His  features  appeared  not  unfamiliar  to  Alonzo* 
but  for  a  moment  he  could  not  recollect  hirru 
"  You  do  not  know  me,"  said  the  apparently  dy 
ing  stranger.  "  Beauman  !"  exclaimed  Alonzo 
in  surprise.  '  Yes,  [replied  the  srck  man]  it  is 
Beauman  ;  you  behold  -me  on  the  verge  of  eter 
nity  ;  I  have  but  a  short  time  to  continue  in  this 
world."  Alonzo  enquired  how  he  came  in  the 
power  of  the  enemy.  "  By  the  fate  of  war*,  [he 

*  The  Americans  who  were  imprisoned  in  England,  in  the 
time   of  the  war,  were  treated  with  much  more  hytiv. 
thgia  those  who  were  imprisoned  ia  America-, 


14.6  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

replied]  I  was  taken  in  an  action  on  York  Island, 
Carried  on  board  a  prison-ship  in  NW  York,  and 
sent  with  a  number  of  others  .for  England.  I  had 
received  a  wound  in  n  .  a  inusket- 

ball,  during  the  action  ;  ri,{; ..\vouiid  nuntifi«  d,  and 
jny  thigh  was  amputated  on  the  vovc.ge,  sihce 
which  I  have  been  rapidly  wasting  awa\ ,  and  I 
now  feel  that  the  cold  hand  of  death  is  laid  upon 
me."  Here  he  became  exhausted,  and  for  some 
time  remained  silent.  Alonzo  had  not  before 
discovered  that  he  had  lost  his  leg  :  he  now  found 
that  it  had  been  taken  off  close  to  his  body,  and 
lhat  he  was  worn  to  a  skeleton.  When  Beauman 
revived,  he  enquired  into  Alonzo's  affairs  :  Alon 
zo  related  all  that  had  happened  to  him  after 
leaving  New-London* 

"  You  are  uniiappy,  Alonzo,  [said  Beauman  J 
in  the  death  of  your  Melissa,  to  which  it  is  pos 
sible  I  have  been  undesignedly  accessory.  I 
could  say  much  on  the  subject,  would  my  strength 
permit  •  but  it  is  needless — she  is  gone,  and  I 
must  som  go  also.  She  was  sent  to  her  urge's 
at  Charleston,  by  her  father,  where  I  was  soon 
to  follow  her.  It  was  supposed  that  thus  widely 
removed  from  all  access  to  your  company,  she 
would  yield  to  the  persuasion  of  her  friends  to  re- 
r*oiuice  you  ;  her  unexpected  death,  however, 
frustrated  every  design  of  this  nature,  and  over- 
v/helrned  her  Father  and  .family  in  inexpressible 

Here  Beauman  ceased.  Alonzo  found  he  want- 
:  he  eniiirtfd  whether  he  was' in  want  of 


ALONZO  AND  MEXISSA, 

anything  to  render  him  mpreco.nfortable  ;  BeauT 
replied  he  was  not  ;    4t  for  me  coinjbrfs  of 
tiv       (\   [said  he]  1  have  no  reiifcli  ;   medical  aid 
i  :T,  but  cvithout  effect."     Alouzo  men  left 

hi  .-«ii:::,iiig  to  call  again  in  die  morning. 

\V >.;•  n  Aiunz'i  called  the  next  morning,  he  per- 
ceiwd  au  aiatmh^  aUe-ation  in  Bcauman.  His 
exrremuies  were  cold,  a  chilling,  clammy  sweat 
stood  upon  hi-,  hce,  his  respiration  was  short 
a\xi  ir.terrupted,  h^s  iru:ue  '.ve..Jv  and  iutermiuing.fi 
He  took  the  ha'«U  oi  Aio-iZ^o/and  feebly  pressing 
it,  4C  I  am  d)ing,  [said  he  in  a  faint  voice.  J  If  ev 
er  you  return  to  America,  inform  my  friends  of 
my  fate."  This  Alonzo  readily  engaged  to  do, 
and  toid  him  also  that  he  would  not  leave  him. 

Beauman  soon  fell  into  a  stupour  ;  sensation 
became  suspended  ;  his  eyes  rolled  up  aiid  fixed* 
Sometimes  a  partial  revival  would  take  place, 
when  he  would  fall  into  incoherent  mutterings, 
calling  on  the  names  of  his  deceased  father,  his 
mother  and  Melissa  ;  his  voice  dying  away  in  im 
perfect  moanings,  till  his  lips  continued  to  move 
without  sound.  Towards  night  he  lay  silent,  and 
only  continued  to  breathe  with  difficulty,  till  a 
slight  convulsion  gave  the  freed  spirit  to  the  un 
known  regions  of  immaterial  existence.  Alonzo 
followed  his  remains  to  the  grave  ;  a  natural 
stone  was* placed  at  its  head,  on  which  Alonzo, 
unobserved,  carved  the  initials  of  the  deceased's 
name,  with  the  date  of  his  death.,  and  left  him  to 
moulder  with  hfs  native  cl; 


ALON20  AND  MELISSA. 

A  few  days  after  this  even*,   Jack  Brown  in- 
formed  Alonzo  that  he' had  procured  the  means 
of  his  escape.     A  person   with  whom   I  am  ac 
quainted  fsaid  he]  and  whom  I   suppose  to  be  a 
smuggler,  has  agreed  to  carry  you  to  France. — 
There,  by  application  to  the  American  minister, 
you  will  be  enabled  to  get  to  your  own  country, 
if  that  is  your  object.     About  midnight   I  will 
pilot  you  on  board,  a  IK!  by  to-morrow's  sun  you 
may  be  in  France/'    At  the  time  appointed,  Jack 
set  out,  bearing  a   large  trunk   on   his  shoulder, 
and  directed  Alonzo  to  follow   him.     They  pro 
ceeded  down  to  a  quay,  and  went  on  board  a  small 
skiff'.     '«  Here   [said  Jack  to  the  captain]  is  the 
gentleman  I  spoke  to  you  about,"  and  delivered 
him  the  trunk.     Then  taking  Alonzo  aside,  "  in 
that  trunk  [said  he]  are  a  few  changes  of  linen, 
and  here  is  something  to   help   you   till  you  cant 
help  yourself."     So  saying,  he  slipped  ten  guin 
eas  into  his  hand.      Alonzo  expressed  his  grati 
tude  with  tears       "  Say  nothing  [^aid  Jack]  we 
were  born  to  help  eacii  other  in  distress,  and  may 
Jack  never    weather  a  storm  or  splice  a  rope    if 
he  permits  a  fellow-creature  to  suffer  with  w«nt 
while  he  has    a  luncheon  on  board."     He  then 
shook  Alonzo  by  the  hand,  wishing  him  a  good 
voyage,  and    went  whistling   away.     The    skiff 
.soon  sailed,    and  the  next  morning  Alonzo  was 
landed  in  France. 

Alonzo  proceeded  immediately  to  Paris,  not 
with  a  view  of  returning  to  America  ;  he  had 
vet,  no  relish  for  revisiting  the  land  of  his  soiv 


ALONZO  ANJSfiMELISslT  149 

rows,  the  scenes  where  at  every  step  his  heart 
must  bleed  afresh,  though  to  bleed  it  hud  never 
ceased.  But  he  was  friendless  in  a  strange  land  : 
perhaps  through  the  aid  of  the  American  minis 
ter,  Dr.  Franklin,  to  whose  fame  Aionzo  w^as  no 
stranger,  he  might  be  placed  in  a  situation  to 
procure  bread,  which  was  all  he  at  present  hoped 
or  wished. 

He  therefore  presented  himself  before  the  doc 
tor,  whom  he  found  in  his  study.  To  be  inform- , 
ed  that  he  was  an  American  and  unfortunate,  was 
sufficient  to  arouse  the  feelings  of  Franklin.  He 
desired  Aionzo  to  be  seated,  and  to  recite  his 
history.  This  he  readily  complied  with,  not 
concealing  his  attachment  to  Melissa,  her  fath 
er's  barbarity,  her  death  in  consequence,  his  own 
father's  failure,  with  all  the  particulars  of  his 
leaving  America,  his  capture,  escape  from  prison, 
and  arrival  in  France  ;  as  also  the  town  of  his 
nativity,  the  name  of  his  father,  and  the  particu 
lar  circumstances  of  his  family,  concluding  by 
expressing  his  unconquerable  reluctance  to  re 
turn  to  his  native  country,  which  now  would  be 
to  him  only  a  gloomy  wilderness,  and  that  his 
present  object  was  only  some  means  of  support. 

The  doctor  enquired  of  Aionzo  the  particular 
circumstances  and  time  of  his  father's  failure. — 
Of  this  Aionzo  gave  him  a  minute  account. 
Franklin  then  sat  in  deep  contemplation  for  the 
space  of  fifteen  minutes,  without  speaking  a 
word.  >  He  then  took  his  pen,  wrote  a  short  note, 
directed  it,  and  gave  it  to  Aionzo  :  <J  deliver  this-. 


150  ALONZO  AND  MELtSSA. 

£said  he]  to  the  person  to  whom  it  is  directed  he 
iv ill  find  you  employment  until  something  more 
favourable  may  offer."  Aioi-zo  took  the  note, 
thanked  the  doctor,  and  vvvnt  in  search  of  the 
person  to  whom  it  \ns  addressed.  He  soon 
found  the  house,  which  v« >as  situated  in  one  of 
the  most  popular  streets  in  Paris.  He  knocked 
at  the  door,  which  was  opened  by  an  eiderJy  look 
ing  man  ;  Alonzo  enquired  for  the  name  to  whom 
the  note  was  addressed ;  the  gentleman  informed 
him  that  he  was  the  man.  Alonzo  presented 
him  the  note,  which  having  read,  he  dc  sired  him 
to  walk  in,  and  ordered  supper.  After  supper 
he  informed  Alonzo  that  he  was  an  English  book 
seller,  that  he  should  employ  him  as  a  clerk,  and 
desired  to  know  what  wages  he  demanded  ;  Alon- 
20  replied  that  he  should  submit  that  to  him,  be 
ing  unacquainted  with  the  customary  salary  of 
clerks  in  that  line  of  business.  The  gentleman 
told  him  that  the  matter  should  be  arranged  the 
next  day — his  name  was  Grafton. 

The  next  morning  Mr.  Graf  on  took  Alonzo 
into  his  book-store,  and  gave  him  his  instructions. 
,His  business  was  to  sell  the  books  to  customers, 
and  a  list  of  prices  was- given  him  for  that  pur 
pose.     Mr.  Grafton  counted  out  twenty  crowns 
and   gave    them   to  Alonzo  :     '*  You  may  want 
some  necessaries,   [said  he]  and  as  you  have  set 
?io  price  on  your  services,    we  shall  not  differ  a- 
oou  t  the  wages,  if  you  are  attentive  and  faithful." 
Alonzo  gave  his  employer  no  room  to  com- 
in  ;  nor  had  he  anv  reason  to  be  discontented 


ALONZd   AND  MELISSA.  151 

with  his  situation.  Mr.  Grafton  regularly  ad 
vanced  him  twenty  crowns  at  the  commencement 
of  every  month,  and  boarded  him  in  his  family, 
Alonzo  dressed  himself  in  deep  mourning.  He 
sought  no  company  ;  he  found  consolation  only 
in  solitude,  if  consolation  it  could  be  called. 

As  he  was  walking  out  early  one  morning,  he 
discovered  something  lying  in  the  street  which  he 
at  first  supposed  to  be  a  small  piece  of  silk  ;  he 
took  it  up,  and  found  it  to  be  a  curiously  wrought 
purse,  containing  a  few  guineas,  with  some  small 
pieces  of  silver,  and  something  at  the  bottom 
carefully  wrapped  in  a  piece  of  paper  ;  he  unfold 
ed  it,  and  was  thunderstruck  at  beholding  an  ele 
gant  miniature  of  Melissa  !  Her  sweetly  pensive 
features,  her  expressive  countenance,  her  soul- 
enlivening  eye  !  The  shock  was  almost  too  pow 
erful  for  his  senses.  Wildered  in  a  maze  of 
wonders,  he  knew  not  what  to  conjecture.  Me 
lissa's  miniature  found  in  the  streets  of  Paris,  af 
ter  she  had  some  time  been  dead  !  He  viewed 
he  clasped  it  to  his  bosom.  "  Such  (said  he) 
did  she  appear,  ere  the  corroding  cankers  of  grief 
had  blighted  her  heavenly  charms  !  By  what 
providential  miracle  am  I  possessed  of  the  like 
ness,  when  the  original  is  no  more  ?  What  be 
nevolent  angel  has  taken  pity  on  my  sufferings, 
and  conveyed  me  this  inestimable  prize  ?" 

But  though  he  had  thus  become  possessed  of 
what  he  esteemed  most  valuable,  what  right  had 
he  to  withhold  it  from  the  lawful  owner,  could 
the  owner  indeed  be  found  ?  Perhaps  the  person 


152  ALONZO  AND  MS1IS5A7 

\vlio  had  lost  it  would  part  with  it  ;  perhaps  the 
money  contained  in  the  purse  was  of  more  value 
to  that  person  than  the  miniature.  At  any  rate, 
justice  required  that  he  should  endeavour  to 
find  to  whom  it  belonged  :  this  ht>  might  do  by 
advertising,  which  he  immediately  concluded  up 
on,  resolving,  should  the  owner, appear,  to  pur 
chase  the  miniature,  if  possibly  within  his  power. 

Passing  into  another  street,  he  saw  several 
hand-bills  stuck  up  on  the  walls  of  houses  ;  step 
ping  up  to  one,  he  read  as  follows  : 

44  Lost,  between  the  hours  of  nine  and  ten  last 
evening,  in  the  Rue  de  Loir,  a  small  silk  purse, 
containing  a  few  pieces  of  money,  and  a  lady's 
m-niature.  ONE  HUNDRED  CEOWNS  will  be 
given  to  the  person  who  may  have  found  it,  and 
will  restore  it  to  the  owner,  at  the  American  Ho 
tel,  near  the  Louvre,  room  No  4." 

it  was  printed  both  in  the  French  and  English, 
languages.  By  the  reward  here  offered,  Albjizo 
v;as  convinced  that  the  miniature  belonged  to 
ic  person  uho  set  a  value  upon  it  ;  deter 
mined  to  explicate  the  mystery,  he  proceeded 
iinmediatel)  to  the  pli<  e, found  the  room  mention 
ed  in  the  bill,  and  knocked  at  the  door  A  servant 
nppeared>of  whom  Alonzo  enquired  for  the  lodger. 
The  servant  answered  him  in  French,  which  A- 
lonzo  did  not  understand  ;  he  replied  in  his  own 
language,  but  found  it  was  unintelligible  to  the 
servant.  A  grave  middle  aged  gentleman  then 
came  to  the  door,  from  within  the  room,  and  end 
ed  their  jabbering  at  each  other  :  he  in  the  Eng- 


ALONZO  AND  MFLISSA^  153 

lish  language,  desired  Alonzo  to  walk  in.  It  was 
an  apartment  neatly  furnished  -,  no  person  was 
therein  except  the  gentleman  and  servant  before 
mentioned  and  a  person  who  sat  writing  in  a 
corner  of  the  room,  with  l>is  back  towards  them, 

Alonzo  informed  the  gentleman  that  he  had 
called  according  to  the  direction  in  a  bill  of  ad 
vertisement  to  enquire  for  the  person  who,  the 
preceding  night,  had  lost  a  purse  and  miniature. 
The  person  who  was  writing  hjd  hitherto  taken 
no  notice  of  what  had  ;..:sstd  ;  but  at  the  sound 
of  Alonzo's  voice,  after  he  had  entered  the  room* 
he  started  and,,turned  about,  and  at  mention  of 
the  miniature,  he  rose  up.  Alonzo  fixed  his  eyes 
upon  him  ;  they  both  stood  for  a  few  moments 
silent  ;  for  a  short  time  their  recollection  was 
confused  and  imperfect,  but  the  mists  of  doubt 
were  soon  dissipated.  "  Edgar  !" — "Alonzo  !5> 
they  alternately  exclaimed.  It  was  indeed  Ed 
gar,  the  early  friend  and  fellow- student  of  Alon 
zo — -the  brother  of  Melissa  !  In  an  instant  they 
were  in  each  others  arms. 

Edgar  and  Alonzo  retired  to  a  separate  room. 
Edgar  informed  Alonzo  that  the  news  of  Melis 
sa's  death  reached  him  by  a  letter  from  his  fath 
er,  while  at  the  army  ;  that  he  immediately  pro 
cured  a  furlough,  and  visited  his  father,  whom, 
with  his  mother,  he  found  in  inconsolable  distress. 
"  The  letter  which  my  uncle  had  written  (said 
Edgar)  announcing  her  death,  mentioned  \vith 
what  patience  and  placidity  she  endured  her  mal 
ady,  and  with  wfaat  calmness  and  resignation  sh'et 


154  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.' 

met  the  approach  of  death.  Her  last  moment's, 
like  her  whole  life,  were  unruffled  and  serene. — - 
She  is  in  Heaven,  Alonzo — she  is  an  angel  1" — 
Swelling  grief  here  choaked  the  utterance  of  Ed 
gar  ;  for  some  time  he  could  proceed  no  farther, 
and  Alonzo,  with  bursting  bosom,  mingled  his 
tears. 

<l  My  father,  (resumed  Edgar)  bent  on  uniting 
her  to  Beau  man  or  at  least  of  preventing  her  un 
ion  with  you,  hud  removed  her  to  a  desolate  fam 
ily  mansion,  and  placed  her  under  the  care  of  an 
aunt.  At  that  place,  he  either  suspected,  or  re. 
ally  discovered  that  you  had  recourse  to  her  while 
my  aunt  was  absent  on  business.  She  was  there 
fore  no  longer  entrusted  to  the  care  of  her  aunt, 
but  my  f  ther  immediately  formed  and  executed 
the  plan  of  sending  her  to  his  brother  in  South- 
Carolina,  under  pretence  of  restoring  her  to 
health  by  change  of  climate,  as  her  health,  in  re 
ality  had  began  rapidly  to  decay.  There  it  was 
designed  that  Beauman  should  shortly  follow  her, 
with  recommendations  from  my  father  to  her  un 
cle,  urging  him  to  use  all  possible  means  which 
might*  tend  to  persuade  her  to  become  the  wife 
of  Beauman.  But  change  of  climate  only  en- 
creased  the  load  of  sorrows,  and  she  soon  sunk 
beneath  them.  The  letter  mentioned  notking  of 
her  troubles  ;  possibly  my  uncle's  family  knew 

of  them  ;  to  them,  probably, 
•  bhw  iicv-r  told  her  love, 

But  sat  like  Patience  en  a  monument 

Smiling  a.  grief  ;  while  sad  concealment, 

Like  a  worm  in  the  bud, 

Fed  on  her  damask  cheek," 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

*'  My  father's  distress  was  excessive  :  often 
did  he  accuse  himself  of  barbarity,  and  he  once 
earnestly  expressed  a  wish  that  he  had  consented 
to  her  union  v  ith  you.  My  father,  I  know,  is 
parsimonious  but  he  sincerely  loved  his  children* 
Inflexible  as  is  his  nature  the  untimely  death  of 
a  truly  affectionate  and  only  daughter,  will,  I 
IT*  -on  fear,  precipitate  him  and  perhaps  my 
in  uhertUso,  to  a  speedy  grave. 

"  \s  soon  as  my  feelings  would  permit,  I  re 
paired  to  your  father's,  and  made  enquiry  con 
cerning  you.  1  found  your  parents  content  in 
their  humble  state,  except  that  your  father  had 
been  ill,  but  was  recovering.  Of  you  they  had 
heard  nothing1  since  your  departure  and  they 
deeply  fatnented  your  absence.  And  from  Vin* 
cent  I  could  obtain  no  farther  information. 

"  Sick  of  the  world,  I  returned  to  the  army. 
An  American  consul  was  soon  to  sail  for  Holland; 
I  solicited  and  obtained  the  appointment  of  sec 
retary,  I  hoped  by  visiting  distant  countries,  in 
some  measure  to  relieve  my  mind  from  the  deep 
melancholy  with  which  it  was  oppressed.  We 
were  to  proceed  first  to  Paris,  where  we.,  have 
been  a  few  days  ;  to-morrow  we  are  to  depart 
for  Holland.  The  consul  is  £he  man  who  in 
troduced  you  into  the  room  where  you  found 
me.  Last  evening  I  lost  the  miniature  which  I 
suppose  you  have  found  ;  the  chain  to  which  it 
was  suspended  around  my  neck,  had  broken, while 
I  wa§  walking  the  street  ;  I  carefully  wrapped  it 
in  paper  and  deposited  it  in  my  purse,  which  I 


156  ALON20  AND  MELISSA^ 

probably  dropped  on  replacing  it  in  my  pocket, 
and  did  not  discover  the  loss  until  this  morning  ; 
I  immediately  made  diligent  search,  but  not  find 
ing  it,  I  pnt  up  bills  of  advertisement.   The  like 
ness  was  taken  in  my  sister's  happiest  days.    Af 
ter  I  had  entered  ufion  my  proft  ssional  studies  in 
New- York,  I  became  acquainted  with  a  miniature- 
painter,  who  took  my  likeness.     He  afterwards 
went  into  the  country,  and  as  I  found  he  was  to 
pass  near  my  father's,  I  engaged  him  to  call  there 
and  take  my  sister's  likeness  also  :   we  exchang 
ed  them  soon  after.  It  was  clear  to  me,  even  while, 
the  original  remained ;  but  since  she  is  gone  it 
has  become  a  most  precious  and  valuable  i  clique ." 

All  the  tender  powers  of  Alonzo's  soul  were 
called  into  action  by  Edgar's  recital.  The  "  d«;}  & 
of  other  years" — the  ghosts  of  sepulchred  bles 
sings,  passed  in  painful  review.  Added  to  these, 
the  penurious  condition  of  his  parents,  his  fath 
er's  recent  illness,  and  his  probable  inability  to 
procure  the  bread  of  his  family,  ail  tench,  d  more 
deeply  to  sink  his  spirits  in  the  gnlf  of  ruehn- 
choly  and  misery.  He  however  informed  Edgar 
of  all  that  had  happened  since  they  jyirted  ut 
Vincent's  ;  respecting  the  old  mansion,  Melissa's 
extraordinary  disappearance  therefrom,  the  man 
ner  in  which  he  was  informed  of  her  death,  his 
departure  from  America,  capture,  escape.  Beau- 
man's  death,  arrival  in  France,  and  his  finding 
the  miniature.  To  Edgar  as  well  as  Alonzo, 
Melissa's  sudden  and  unaccountable  removal 
i  the  mansion  was  mysterious  and  inexuli- 

-Ie. 


ALONZO  AND~MELISSA.  157 

As  Edgar  was  to  depart  early  the  next  morn- 
Ing,  they  neither  slept  nor  separated  that  night. 

If  it  were  not  for  your  reluctance  to  revisit 
your  native  country,  (said  Edgar)  I  should  urge 
you  to  accompany  me  to  Holland,  and  thence  re- 
turn  with  me  to  America.  Necessity  and  duty 
require  that  I  should  not  be  long  absent,  as  my 
parents  want  my  assistance,  and  they  are  now 
childless."  "  Suffer  me  (answered  Alonzo)  to 
bury  myself  in  this  city  for  the  present  ;  should 
I  ever  again  awake  to  real  life,  I  will  seek  you 
out  if  you  are  on  the  earth,  but  now  I  can  only 
be  a  companion  to  my  miseries." 

The  next  morning  as  they  were  about  to  de 
part,  Alonzo  took  Melissa's  miniature  from  his 
bosom,  he  contemplated  the  picture  a  few  mo 
ments  with  ardent  emotion,  and  presented  it  to 
Edgar.  °  Keep  it,  (said  EdgarJ  it  is  thine.  I 
bestow  it  upon  thee  as  I  would  the  original  had 
not  death  become  the  rival  of  thy  love,  and  my 
affection.  Suffer  not  the  sacred  symbol  too  ten- 
derly  to  renew  your  sorrows.  How  swiftly,  A- 
lonzo,  does  this  restless  life  fleet  away  !  How 
soon  shall  we  pass  the  barriers  of  terrestrial  exis 
tence  !  Let  us  live  worthy  of  ourselves,  of  our 
holy  religion,  of  Melissa — Melissa,  whom,  when 
a  few  more  suns  have  arisen  and  set,  we  shall 
meet  in  regions  where  all  tears  shall  be  eternally 
wiped  from  every  eye." 

With' what  unspeakable  sensibilities  was  it  re 
turned  to  Alonzo's  bosom  !  Edgar  offered '  Alon- 
so  pecuniary  Assistance,  which  the  latter  refused  ; 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

"  I  am  in  business,  (said  he)  which  brings  me  a 
decent  support,  and  ihat  is  sufficient."  1  hex  a- 
greed  to  write  each  other  as  fn-quently  os  possi 
ble,  and  then  affectionately  parted  ;  Edgar  saiied 
for  Holland  and  Alonzo  returned  to  his  bush  ess 
at  Mr.  Grafto-n's. 

Some  time  after  this  A'o.-zo  received  a  mes 
sage  from  Dr.  Franklin,  requiring  his  attendance 
at  his  house,  which  summons  he  immediately  o- 
beyed.  The  doctor  introduced  him  into  his  stu 
dy,  and  after  being  seated,  he  earnestly  viewed 
Alonzo  for  some  time,  and  thus  addressed  him  : 
f  "  Young  man,  your  views,  your  resolutions, 
and  your  present  conduct,  are  totally  wrong. — 
Disappointment,  you  say,  has  driven  you  from 
your  native  country.  Disappointment  in  what  ? 
In  obtaining  the  object  on  which  you  most  doat- 
ed.  And  suppose  this  object  had  been  obtained, 
would  your  happiness  have  been  complete  ?  Your 
own  reason,  if  you  coolly  consult  it,  \vill  con 
vince  you  of  the  contrary*  Do  you  not  remem 
ber,  when  an  infant,  how  you  cried,  and  teazed 
your  nurse,  or  your  parents,  for  a  rattle  or  some 
gay  trinket  ?  Your  whole  soul  was  fixed  upon 
the  enchanting  bauble  ;  but  when  obtained  you 
soon  cast  it  away,  and  sighed  as  earnestly  'for 
some  other  trifle,  some  new  toy.  Thus  it  is 
through  life  ;  the  fancied  value  of  an  object  ceas 
es  with  the  attainment  ;  it  becomes  familiar,  and 
its  charm  is  lost. 

<l  Was  it  the  splendours  of  beauty  which  CM- 
rapture^  you  ?  Sickness  may,  and  age  must 


A .L C  i\>  £  O  A  N  £  M  E  L 1  S3  A ,  159 

stroy  the  symmetry  of  the  most  finished  form — 
the  brilliancy  of  the  finesc  features.  Was  it  the 
graces  of  the  mind  ?  1  tell  you  that  by  familiar. 
ity  these  allurements  are  lost,  and  the  mind  left 
vacant  turns  to  some  other  source  to  supply  va 
cuum. 

"  Stripped  of  ill  their  intrinsic  value,  how  poor, 
how  vain,  and  how  worthless,  are  those  things 
we  name  pleasures  and  enjoyments  ! 

"  Besides,  the  attainment  of  your  wishes  might 
have  been  the  death  of  your  hopes.  If  my  rea 
soning  is  correct,  the  ardency  of  your  passion 
might  have  closed  with  the  pursuit.  An  eve 
ry  day  suit  however  rich  and  costly  the  tex 
ture,  is  soon  worn  threadbare.  On  your  part, 
indifference  would  consequently  succeed  ;  on  the 
part  of  your  partner,  disappointment,  jealousy, 
and  disgust*  What  might  follow  is  needless  for 
me  to  name  ;  your  soul  must  shudder  at  the  idea 
of  conjugal  infidelity  ! 

"  But  admitting  the  most  favourable  conse 
quences  ;  turn  the  brightest  side  of  the  picture- 
admitting  as  much  happiness  as  the  connubial 
state  will  allow  :  how  might  your  bosom  have 
been  wounded  by  the  sickness  and  death  of  your 
children,  or  their  disorderly  and  disobedient  con 
duct  !  You  must  know  also,  that  the  warmth  of 
youthful  passion  must  soon  cease,  and  it  is  mere 
ly  a  hazardous  chance  whether  friendship  will 
supply  the  absence  of  affection. 

"  After  all,  my  young  friend,  it  will  be  well 
for  you  to  consider,  whether  the  all- wise  dispen- 


160  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA, 

sing  hand  of  Providence  has   not   directed  this 
matter,  which  \ou  esteem  so  great  an    affliction, 
for  your  greatest  gqod,  and  most  essential  ad  van- 
tage.      And  suffer  me  to  tell  you.    that  in  all   my 
observations   on    life,   I  have  alwa\  s  found  that 
those  connections  which  were  formed  from  inor 
dinate  passion,  or  what  some  would  call  pure  af 
fection,  have  been  ever  the  most  unhappy.     Ex 
amine  the  varied  circles  of  society,  you  will  there 
see  this  axiom  demonstrated  :  you  will  there  see 
how  R  w  among  the  sentimentally  refined  are  even 
apparently  at  ease,  while  those  insusceptible  of 
what  you  name  tender   attachments,  or  'who  re 
ceive    them  only  as    thing's  of  course,    plod  on 
through  life,  without  even  experiencing  the  least 
inconvenience  from  a  want  ol  the  pleasures  they 
are  supposed  to  bestow,  or  the  pains  they  are  sure 
to  create.  '  Beware,    then,    my    son,    beware  of 
yielding  the  heart  to  the  effeminacies  of  passion. 
Exquisite  sensibilities  are  ever  subject  to  exqui- 
si-e    inquietudes       Counsel  with  correct  reason, 
pkice  entire  dependence  on   the    SUPREME,    and 
the  triumph  of  fortitude  and  resignation  will  be 


Franklin  paused  His  reasonings,  however 
they  convinced  he  understanding,  could  not  heal 
the  wounds  of  ASoMzo'b  bosom.  In  Melissa  he 
looked  for  as  much  happiness  as  earth  could  af 
ford,  nor  could  he  see  a  .y  prospect  in  life  which, 
could  repair  the  loss  lit  had  sustained. 

"  You  hdve  (resumed  the  philosopher)  desert 
ed  an  indulgent  father,  a  fund  and  tender  mother, 


ALONZO   ANti  HfFLISSA. 

who  must  want  your  aid  ;  now,  perhaps,  unable 
to  toil  for  bread  ;  now  possibly  laid  upon  the  bed 
of  sickness,  calling  in  anguish  or  delirium,  for 
the  filial  Ivtnd  of  their  only  son  to  administer  re 
lief.  [All  the  parental  feelings  of  Alonzo  were 
now  called  into  poignant  action.]  You  have  left 
a  country,  bleeding  at  ev^ry  pore,  desolated  by 
the  ravages  of  war,  wrecked  by  the  thunders  of 
battle,  her  heroes  slain,  her  children  captured. — 
This  country  asks — she  demands — you  owe  her 
your  services-— God  and  nature  call  upon  you  to 
defend  her,  while  here  you  bury  yourself  in  in 
glorious  inactivity,  pining  for  a  hapless  object, 
which  by  all  your  lamentations  you  can  never 
bring  back  to  the  regions  of  mortality." 

This  aroused  the  patriotic  flame  in  the  bosorri 
.of  Alonzo,  and  he  voluntarily  exclaimed,  "  I  will 
go  to  the  relief  of  my  parents-*-!  will  fly  to  the 
defence  of  my  country  !" 

"  In  former  days  (continued  Franklin)  I  was 
well  acquainted  with  your  father.  As  soon  a$ 
you  informed  me  of  his  failure,  I  wrote  to  my 
correspondent  in  England,  and  found,  as  I  ex 
pected,  that  he  had  been  overreached  by  swin 
dlers  and  sharpers.  The  pretended  failure  of 
the  merchants  with  whom  he  was  in  company, 
was  all  a  sham,  as  also  the  reported  loss  of  the 
ships  in  their  employ.  The  merchants  fled  to 
England  ;  I  have  hid  them  arrested,  and  they 
have  given  up  their  effects,  to  much  more  than 
the  amount  of  their  debts.  I  have  therefore  pro 
cured  a  reversion  of  your  father's  losses,  which, 
W 


162  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

with  costs,  damages,  and  interests,  when  legally 
stated,  he  will  receive  of  my  agent  in  Philadel 
phia,  to  whom  I  shall  transmit  sufficient  docu 
ments  by  you  and  I  shall  advance  you  a  sum 
equal  to  the  expenses  of  your  voyage,  which  will 
be  liquidated  by  the  said  agent.  A  ship  sails  in 
a  few  days  from  Havre,  for  Savannah  in  Georgia; 
it  would,  indeed,  be  more  convenient  were  she 
bound  to  some  more  northern  port,  but  I  know 
of  no  other  which  will  sail  for  any  part  of  Amer 
ica  in  some  time.  In  her  therefore  I  would  ad 
vise  you  to  take  passage  ;  it  is  not  very  material 
on  what  part  of  the  continent  you  are  landed,  you 
will  soon  reach  Philadelphia,  transact  your  busi 
ness,  restore  your  lather  to  his  property,  and  be 
ready  to  serve  your  country." 

If  any  thing  could  have  given  Alonzo  consola 
tion,  it  must  have  been  this  noble,  generous  and 
disinterested  conduct  of  the  great  Franklin  in  fa 
vour  of  his  father  by  which  his  family  were  res 
tored  to  ease  and  to  independence*  Ah  !  had  this 
but  have  happened  in  time  to  save  a  life  far  dear 
er  than  his  own  !  The  reflection'  was  too  painful. 
The  idea,  however,  of  giving  joy  to  Jus  aged  par 
ents,  hastened  his  departure.  Furnished  with 
proper  documents  and  credentials  from  Franklin, 
his  benefactor,  he  took  leave  of  him,  with  the 
warmest  expressions  of  gratitude,  as  also  of  Mr. 
Grafron,  and  sailed  for  Savannah,  where  he  ar 
rived  i.i  about  ei.^ht  weeks 

Inter; c  on  hib  purpose,  he  immediately  purcha- 
•  carnage  and  proceeded  on  for  Philadelphia, 


,    ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  I6S 

As  he  approached  Charleston  his  bosom  swelled 
•with  mournful  recollection.  He  arrived  in  that 
city  in  the  afternoon,  and  at  evening  he  walked 
out,  and  entered  a  little  ale-house,  which  stood 
near  the  large  burial  ground.  An  elderly  woman 
and  two  small  children  were  the  only  persons  in 
the  house,  except  himself.  After  calling  for  a 
pint  of  ale,  he  enquired  of  the  old  lady,  if  CoL 

D (Melissa's  uncle)  did   not  live  near  the 

city.  She  informed  him  that  lie  resided  about  a 
mile  from  the  town,  where  he  had  an  ekgam 
seat,  and  that  he  was  very  rich.  "  Was  there  not 
a  3  oung  lady  (asked  Aionz«  )v,ho  died  there  about 
eighteen  months  ago  ?"  "  La  me  !  (said  she) 
did  you  know  her  ?  Yes  ;  and  a  sweeter  or  more 
handsome  lady,  the  sun  never  shined  on.  And 
then  she  was  so  good,  so  patient  in  her  sickness. 
Poor,  dear,  distressed  girl,  she  pined  away  to 
skin  and  bones  before  she  died.  She  was  not 

Col.  D -'s  daughter,  only  somehow  related  ; 

she  came  here  in  hopes  that  a  change  of  air  might 
do  her  good.  She  came  from— la  me  !  I  can 
not  think  of  the  name  of  the  place  ;  it  is  a  crab 
bed  name  though."  "  Connecticut,  was  it  not," 
said  Alonzo.  "  O  yes,  that  was  it,  (replied  she) 
dear  me  !  then  you  knew  her,  did  you  sir  ?  Well 
we  have  not  her  like  left  in.  Charleston,  that  we 
han't  ;  and  then  there  was  such  ado  at  her  fune 
ral  j.five  hundred  people  I  dare  say,  with  eight 
young  ladies  for  pall-bearers,  all  dressed  in  white, 
with  black  ribons,  and  all  the  bells  tolling."— 
"  Where  was  she  buried  ?"  enquired 


164  ALONZO  AND   MELISSA- 

"  In  the  church-yard  right  before  our  door  (she 
answered.)  My  husband  is  the  sexton  ;  he  put 
up  her  large  white  marble  tomb- stones  ;  they  are 
the  largest  and  whitest  in  the  whole  bury  ing- 
ground,  and  so,  indeed,  they  ought  to  be,  for 
never  was  there  a  person  who  deserved  them 
more.1'  Tired  with  the  old  woman's  garrulity, 
and  with  a  bosom  bursting  with  anguish,  AlonzQ 
paid  for  his  ale  without  drinking  it,  bade  her 
good  night,  and  slowly  proceeded  to  the  church 
yard.  The  moon,  in  full  lustre,  shone  with  sol 
emn,  silvery  ray,  on  the  sacred  piles,  and  funeral 
monuments  of  the  sacred  dead  ;  the  wind  mur 
mured  mournfully  among  the  weeping  willows; 
a  solitary  nightingale*  sang-plaintively  in  the  dis 
tant  forest,  and  a  whipperwill,,  Melissa's  fdvour- 
jte  bird,  whistled  near  the  portico  of  the  church. 
The  large  wlite  tomb-stones  soon  caught  the  eye 
of  Alonzo.  He  approached  them  with  tremulous 
step,  and  with  feelings  too  agitated  for  description. 
On  the  head- stone  he  read  as  follows  : 

SACRED 

To  the  MEMORY  of  inestimable  departed 

WORTH  ; 
To  unrivalled  Excellence  and  Virtue. 

Miss  MELISSA  D , 

Whose  remains  are  deposited  here,  and  whose 

ethereal  part  became  a  seraph,  Oct  26,  1776, 

In  the  18th  year  ot  her  age. 

*  This  bird,  though  not  an  inhabitant  of  the  nortbtin  states^ 
is  ireque-nily  to  be  me  I  with  in  Georgia  a'.icl  U:e  Curoiinus. 


ALONZO  AN#  MELISSA,  165 

Alonzo  bent,  kneeled  he  prostrated  himself, 
he  clasped  the  green  turf  which  enclosed  her 
grave,  he  watered  it  with  his  tears  he  warmed 
it  with  his  sighs.  "  Where  art  thou,  bright  beam 
of  heavenly  light !  (he  said.)  Come  to  my  troub 
led  soul,  blest  spirit  !  Come,  holv  shade  !  come 
in  ail  thy  native  loveliness,  and  cheer  the  bosom 
of  wretchedness  by  thy  grief  dispersing  smile  ! 
On  the  ray  of  yon  evening  star  descend.  One 
moment  leave  the  celestial  regions  of  glory — 
leave  one  moment,  thy  sister  beatitudes,  glide, 
in  intrancing  beauty  before  me  ;  wave  benignly- 
wave  thy  white  hand,  and  assuage  the  anguish  of 
despairing  sorrow  !  Alas  !  in  vain  my  invoca 
tion  !  A  curtain,  impenetrable,  is  drawn  betwixt 
me  and  vhee,  only  to  be  disclosed  by  the  dissolu 
tion  of  nature." 

He  arose  and  walked  away  ;  suddenly  he  stop 
ped  :  "  Yet  (said  he)  if  spirits  departed  lose  not 
the  power  of  recollection  ;  if  they  have  knowl 
edge  of  present  events  on  earth,  Melissa  cannot 
have  forgotten  me — she  must  pity  me."  He  re 
turned  to  the  grave,  he  took  her  miniature  from 
his  bosom  he  held  it  up,  and  earnestly  viewed  it 
by  the  moon's  pale  ray. 

"  Ah,  Franklin  !  (he  exclaimed)  how  tenderly 
does  she  beam  her  lovely  e}  e  upon  me  !  How  of 
ten  have  I  drank  delicious  extacy  from  the  deli 
cacy  of  those  unrivalled  charms  !  How  often  have 
they  taught  me  to  anticipate  superlative  and  un 
interrupted  bliss  !  Mistaken  and  delusive  hope  ! 
^returning  the  miniature  to  his  bosoni]  Vain  and 


166  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

4K 

presumptuous  assurance.  Then  [pointing  to  the 
grave']  there  behold  how  my  dearest  wishes,  my 
fondest  expectations  are  .realized  !  —  Hallowed 
turf  !  lie  light!}  on  her  boso*,i>  !  Sacred  willows  ! 
sprinkle  the  dews  gently  over  her  grave,  while 
the  mourning  breezes  sigh  sadly  arnid  your 
branches  !  Here  may  the  "  widowed  w?M  rose 
love  to  bloom  !"  Here  may  the  first  piaeid  be,.r,is 
of  morning  delight  to  linger  ;  from  hence,  the 
evening  ray  reluctantly  withdraw  !  And  when  the 
final  trump  shall  renovate  and  arouse  the  sleep 
ing  saint ;  when  on  u  buoyant  step"  she  soars  to 
glory,  may  our  meeting  spirits  join  in  beatific 
transport  !  May  my  enraptured  ear  catch  the  first 
holy  whisper  of  her  consecrated  lips." 

Alonzo  having  thus  poured  out  the  effusions 
of  an  overcharged  heart  pensively  returned  to  the 
inn,  which  he  entered  and  seated  himself  in  the 
common  room  in  deep  contemplation.  As  usual 
at  public  inns,  a  number  of  people  were  in  the 
room  among  whom  were  several  offi  :ers  of  the 
American  army.  Alonzo  was  too  deeply  abborpt 
In  melancholy  reflection,  to  notice  passing  inci 
dents  until  a  young  officer  came,  seated  himself 
by  him,  and  entered  into  conversation  respecting 
the  events  of  the  war.  He  appeared  to  be  about 
Alonzo's  age  ;  his  person  was  interesting,  his 
manners  sprightly,  his  observations  correct.  A- 
,o  was,  in  some  degree,  aroused  from  his  ab- 

•ctedness  ;  the  manners  of  the  stranger  pleas- 

•:'.r\  him.     His  frankness,  his  ease,  his  understand- 

his  urbanity,  void  of  vanity  or  sophistication/ 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA-  167 

sympathetically  caught  the  feelings  of  Alonzo, 
and  he  even  felt  a  sort  of  solemn  regret  when 
the  btiai.ger  departed.  He  soon  retired  to  bed, 
determining  to  proceed  early  in  the  morning. 

He  arose  about  day-light  ;  the  horizon  was 
overcast,  and  it  had  begun  to  rain,  which  before 
sunrise  encreased  to  a  violent  storm.  He  found 
therefore  that  he  must  content  himself  to  stay  un 
til  it  was  over,  which  did  not  happen  till  near 
night,  and  too  late  to  pursue  his  journey.  He  was 
informed  by  the  inn-keeper,  that  the  theatre, 
which  had  been  closed  since  the  commencement 
of  the  war,  was  to  be  opened  for  that  night  only, 
with  the  tragedy  of  Gustavus,  and  close  with  a 
representation  of  Burgoyne's  capture,  and  some 
other  recent  events  of  the  American  war.  To 
"  wing  the  hours  with  swifter  speed,"  Alonzo 
determined  to  go  to  the  theatre,  and  at  the  hour 
appointed  he  repaired  thither. 

As  he  was  proceeding  to  take  his  seat,  he  pass 
ed  the  box  where  sat  the  young  officer,  whose 
manners  had  so  prepossessed  him  the  preceding 
evening  at  the  inn  He  immediately  arose  ;  they 
exchanged  salutations,  and  Alonzo  walked  on 
and  took  his  seat.  The  evening  was  warm,  and 
the  house  exceedingly  crowded.  After  the  tra-, 
gedy  was  through,  and  before  the  after-piece 
commenced,  the  young  officer  came  to  Alonzo's 
box,  and  made  some  remarks  on  the  merit  of  the 
actors.  While  they  were  discoursing  a  bustle 
took  place  in  one  part  of  the  house,  and  several 
people  gathered  around  a  box,  at  a  little  distance 


168  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA^ 

from  them.  The  officer  turned,  left  Alonzo,  and 
hastened  to  the  place.  .  To  the  general  enquiry 
of  **  what's  the  matter  ?"  it  was  answered  that 
"  a  lady  had  fainted."  She  was  kd  out,  and  the 
tumult  subsided. 

As  soon  as  the  after-piece  was  closed,  Alonzo 
returned  to  the  inn.  As  he  passed  along  he  cast 
his  eyes  toward  the  church-yard,  where  lay  the 
"  wither'd  blessings  of  his  richest  joys."  Affec 
tion,  passion,  inclination,  urged  him  to  go  and 
breathe  a  farewel  sigh,  to  drop  a  final  tear  over 
the  grave  of  Melissa  ;  discretion,  reason,  wisdom 
forbade  it — forbade  that  he  re -pierce  the  ten 
thousand  wounds  oi  his  bosom,  by,  the  acute  re 
vival  cf  unavailing  sorrows.  He  hurried  to  his 
chamber. 

As  he  prepared  to  retire  to  rest,  he  saw  a  book 
lying  on  the  table  near  his  bed."  On  taking  it  up 
he  found  it  to  be  Young's  Night  Thoughts  a  book 
which  in  happier  days,  had  been  the  solace  of 
manv  a  gloomy,  many  a  lucid  hour.  He  took  it 
up,  and  the  first  lines  he  cast  his  eyes  upon  were, 
the  following  : 

"  Song,  beauty,  youth,  love,  virtue,  joy  !  this  group 

O.r  bright  id e*s-— flowers  of  Paradise, 

As  y»  t  unforfeit  !  in  one  blaze  we  bind, 

Kneel,  and  present  it  to  the  skies  ;  us  all 

\Ve  i'.uess  of  Heaven  !  And  these  were  all  her  owfij 

And  she  was  mine,  and  T  vv.-s — was  most  blest — 

Like  blossom'd  trees  oVrturn'd  by  vt-rnal  storm^ 

Lovely  in  death  the  beauteous  ruin  lay— 

Ye  that  e*' r  lost' an  Im^el,  nitv  rw  !" 

His  tears  fell  fast  upon  the  book  !  he  replaced 
it  and  flung  himself  into  bed.  Sleep  was  far 


NZd  ANI>  MELISSA*  1<X9 


from  him  ;  he  closed  not  his  eyes  till  the  portals 
of  light  were  unbarred  in  the  east,  when  he  fell 
into  interrupted  slumbers 

When  he  awoke,  the  morning  was  considera 
bly  advanced  He  arose.  One  consolation  was 
yet  kfi  —  to  see  his  parents  happy.  He  went 
down  to  order  his  carriage  ;  his  favourite  stran 
ger,  "the  young  officer,  was  in  waiting,  and  re- 
quested  a  private  interview.  They  immediately 
retired  to  a  separate  room,  when  the  stranger  thus 
addressed  Alonzo  : 

"  From  our  short  acquaintance,  you  may,  sir, 
consider  it  singular  that  I  should  attempt  to  scru 
tinize  your  private  concerns  ;   more  extraordina 
ry  may  you  esteem  it    when  I  inform  you  of  my 
reasons  for  so  doing.      Judging,  however,  from 
appearances,  I  have  no  doubt  of  your  candour  ; 
if  my  questions  should  be  deemed  improper,  you 
will  tell  me  so."     Alonzo  assured  him  he  would 
treat  him  candidly.     "  This  I  believe,    (said  the 
young  officer)  I  take  the  liberty  therefore  to  ask 
if  you  are  an  American  ?"    u  I  am,"  answered 
Alonzo.     "  I  presume  —  (said  tne  stranger)   the 
question  is  a  delicate  one—  I  presume  your  fami 
ly  is  respectable  ?"     <4  Sacredly  so  "  replied  A~ 
lonzo.      "  Are  you  married,  sir  ?"     •"  I  am  now, 
and  have  ever  been  single."     "  H  <ve  you  any 
prospects  of  connecting  in  marriage  ?"  "  I  b°ve» 
not,  sir."     "  I  may  then  saf  !v  proceed,  (sat<j 
stran.ger)  I  trust  you    will  hear  me  attei 
you  will  judge  maturely,  you  will  dec 
}v,  I  am  confident  that  you  will  answer 
cerely,  % 


170  4LOtf&0  AND  ME2ISSA. 

"  A  young  lady  of  this  city,  with  whom  I  ana 
•well  acquainted,  and  to  whom,  indeed,  I  am  dis 
tantly  related,  whose  father  is  affluent,  whose 
connections  are  eminently  respectable,  whose 
manners  are  engaging,  whose  mind  is  virtue, 
whose  elegance  of  form  and  personal  beauty  defy 
competition,  is  the  cause,  sir,  of  this  mission.— 
Early  introduced  into  the  higher  walks  of  life, 
she  has  passed  the  rounds  of  fashionable  compa 
ny  ;  numberless  suitors  sighed  for  her  hand  whom 
she  complaisant!}'  dismissed  without  disobliging, 
as  her  heart  hud  not  yet  been  touched  by  the 
tender  passion  of  love.  Surprising  as  it  may 
however  seem,  it  is  now  about  six  months  since 
she  saw  in  her  dream  the  youth  who  possessed 
the  power  to  inspire  her  with  this  passion.  In 
her  dream  she  saw  a  young  gentleman  whose  in* 
teresting  manners  and  appearance  impressed  her 
so  deeply  that  she  found  she  must  be  unhappy 
without  him.  She  thought  it  was  in  a  mixed 
company  she  saw  him,  but  that  she  could  not  get 
an  opportunity  to  speak  to  him.  It  seemed  that 
if  she  could  but  speak  with  him,  all  difficulties 
would  at  once  be  removed.  At  length  he  ap 
proached  her,  and  just  as  he  was  about  to  ad 
dress  her,  she  awoke.  This  extraordinary 
dream  she  has  communicated  to  several  of  her 
acquaintance.  Confident  that  she  should  some 
time  or  other  behold  the  real  person  whose  sem 
blance  she  had  seen  in  her  drearn,  she  has  never 
since  been  perfectly  at  ease  in  her  mind.  Her 
father,  who  has  but  two  children,  one  bes' 


ALONZO  AffD  MELISSA.  171 

herself,  being  doting  fond  of  her,  has  promised 
that  if  ever  she  meets  this  unknown  stranger,  he 
wiii  not  oppose  their  union,  provided  he  is  ies« 
pectable,  and  that  if  worthy  of  her  hand  he  will 
make  him  independent. 

"  Oa  my  return  from  the  inn  the  evening  I 
first  saw  you,  I  told  my  sister — I  beg  pardon, 
sir — I  was  wandering  from  my  subject — after  I 
first  met  you  at  the  inn,  I  fell  in  company  wi'U 
the  lady,  and  in  a  railing  way  told  her  i  had  sec... 
her  invisible  beau,  as  we  used  to  call  the  gentle- 
man  of  the  dream.  I  superficially  described 
your  person,  and  descanted  a  little  on  the  embel 
lishments  of  your  mind.  She  listened  with  some 
curiosity  and  attention  ;  but  I  had  so  often  jest 
ed  with  her  in  this  manner,  that  she  thought  lit 
tle  o(  it.  At  the  play  last  night,  I  had  just  been 
speaking  to  her  when  I  came  to  your  box  :  her 
eyes  followed  me,  but  no  sooner  had  they  rested 
on  you,  than  she  fainted  !  This  was  the  cause  of 
my  leaving  you  so  abruptly,  and  not  returning. 
We  conveyed  her  home,  when  she  informed  me 
that  you  was  the  person  she  had  seen  in  her 
dream  ! 

"  To  me  only  she  preferred  disclosing  the  cir 
cumstance  at  present,  for  re  sons  which  must  be 
gbvious  to  your  understanding.  Even  her  fath 
er  and  mother  are  not  informed  of  it,  and  should 
my  mission  prove  unsuccessful,  none -except  you, 
sir,  she  and  myself,  I  hope  and  trust, 4V» ill  ever 
know  any  thing  of  the  matter. 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 


"Now,  sir  it  is  necessary  for  me  farther  to 
explain.  As  singular  as  the  circumstances  which 
I  have  rehted  may  appear  to  you,  to  rne  they 
must  appear  as  strange.  One  valuable  purpose 
is  however  answered  thereby;  it  will  exclude 
the  imputation  of  capriciousness  —  the  freakish 
"whim  of  love  at  first  s  ght,  which  exists  only  in 
novels  and  romances.  You,  sir,  are  young/  un- 
married,  unaffianced,  your  affections  free—such 
is  the  condition  of  the  lady.  She  enquires  not 
into  the  state  of  your  property  ;  she  asks  not 
riches  :  if  she  obtains  the  object  of  her  choice, 
on  him,  as  I  have  told}ou,  will  her  father  bestow 
affluence.  Whatever,  sir,  may  be  your  preten 
sions  to  eminence,  and  they  may  be  many,  the 
lady  is  not  your  inferior.  Her  education  also  is 
such  as  would  do  honor  to  a  gentleman  of  taste. 
I  will  not  extend  my  remarks  ;  you  perfectly  un 
derstand  me  —  what  answer  shall  I  return  ?" 

Aionzo  sighed  ;  for  a  few  moments  he  was 
silent.  "Perhaps  (said  the  stranger)  you  may 
consider  the  mode  of  this  message  as  bearing  the 
appearance  of  indecorum.  If  so,  I  presume  on 
reviewing  the  incidents  which  to  —  which  enfor 
ced  it,  as  the  most  safe  —  the  only  means  of  sure 
communication,  you  will  change  your  opinion. 
Probably  you  would  not  wish  finally  to  decide 
until  you  have  visited  the  lady.  This  was  my 
expectation,  and  I  am,  therefore,  ready  to  intro 
duce  you  to  her  presence." 

"  No,  sir,  (said  Alonzo)  so  far  from  consider- 
the  message  indecorous,  I  esteem  it  a  pecul- 


ALONZO   AND  MBLISSA. 

iar  honour,  both  as  respects  the  lady  and  your 
self.  Nor  is  it  necessary  that  I  should  vibit  the 
lady,  to  confirm  the  truth  of  what  you  have  rela 
ted.  You  will  not,  sir,  receive  it  as  an  adulatory 
compliment,  when  I  say,  that  although  our  ac- 
quain'auce  is  short,  yet  my  confidence  in  your 
integrity  is  such  as  to  require  no  corroborating 
facts  to  establish  your  declaration.  But,  sir, 
there  are  obstacles,  insuperable  obstacles,  to  the. 
execution  of  {he  measures  you  would  propose. 

"  Your  frankness  to  me  demands,  on  my  part, 
equal  candour.  I  assured  you  that  I  was  unmar 
ried,  and  had  no  prospect  of  entering  into  matri 
monial  engagements  ;  this  is  indeed  the  fact  :  but 
it  is  also  true  that  my  affections — my  first,  my 
earliest  affections  were  engaged  inalienably  en 
gaged  to  an  object  which  is  now  no  more.  PC  r- 
haps  you  may  esteem  it  singular  ;  perhaps  you 
will  consider  it  enthusiasm  ;  but,  sir  it  is  im 
possible  th'tt  my  heart  should  admit  a  second  and 
similar  impression." 

The  stranger  paused. — <c  Recent  disappoint- 
ments  of  this  nature  (he  replied)  commonly  Itave 
the  mind  under  such  gloomy  influences.  Time, 
however,  the  soother  of  severest  woes,  will, 
though  slowly,  yet  surely  disperse  the  clouds  of 
anguish,  and  the  rays  of  comfort  and  consolation 
will  beam  upon  the  soul.  I  wish  not  to  be  con 
sidered  importunate  but  the.  day  may  arrive  when 
you  may  change  }our  present  determination,  and 
then  will  you  not  regret  that  you  refused  so  ad 
yantageous  an  overture  ?J> 


174  A.  L  ON.  50  Atftt  MELISSA, 

"  That  day  v/ill^  never  arrive,  sir,  (answered 
Alonzo)  I  have  had  time^for  deliberate  reflection 
since  the  melancholy  event  took  place.  I  have 
experienced  a  sufficient  change  of  objects  and  of 
country  ;  the  effect  is  the  same.  The  wound  is 
still  recent,  and  so  it  will  ever  remain  ;  indeed  I 
cannot  wish  it  otherwise.  There  is  a  rich  ai;d 
sacred  solemnity  in  my  sorrows,  sir,  winch  I 
would  not  exchange  for  the  most  splendid  ac 
quirements  of  wealth,  or  the  mobt  dignified  titles 
of  fame." 

'  The  young  officer  sat  for  some  time  silent.—* 
"  Well,  sir,  (he  said)  saice  it  is  thus,  beeing  that 
these  things  are  so,  1  will  urge  you  no  farttiei. — 
You  will  puidon  me  ret«pt cling  the  part  1  have 
taken  in  ihi^  business,  since  it  was  with  the  pur 
est  designs.  May  consolation,  comfort  ai;d  iutp- 
piness  \et  be  yours." 

"  To  vou  and  your  fair  friend  (said  Alonzo)  I 
consider  myself  under  the  highest  obligations. 
The  gratitude  I  feel  I  can  but  feebly  express  ; — 
believe  me.  sir,  when  I  tell  you  (and  it  is  all  I  can 
bay)  that  your  ingenuous  conduct  has  left  impres 
sions  in  my  bosom  which  can  never  be  oblitera 
ted.57  NThe  stranger  held  out  his  hand,  vvhich 
Alonzo  ardently  grasped  :  they  were  silent,  but 
their  eyes  spoke  sympathy,  and  they  parted. 

Alonzo  immediately  prepared,    and  was  soon 

ready  to  depart.      As  he  was  stepping  into  his 

iage,  he  saw  the  young  officer  returning.  *As 

lit',  came  up,  "  I  must/detain  you  a  few  moments 

longer  (he  said)   and  I  will  give  you  no  ft\rthe,i 


ANDt 


trouble.  You  will  recollect  that  the  lady  about 
whom  I  have  so  much  teazed  you,  when  she  be 
came  acquainted  with  you  in  her  dream,  believed 
that  if  she  could  speak  with  you,  ail  difficulties 
would  be  removed.  Conscious  that  this  may  be 
the  case,  [for  with  all  her  accomplishments  she 
is  a  little  superstitious]  she  desires  to  see  you. 
You  have  nothing  to  fear,  sir  ;  she  would  not  for 
the  world  yield  vou  her  hand,  unless  in  return 
you  could  give  her  your  heart.  Nor  was  she 
\viliing  you  should  know  that  she  made  this  re 
quest,  but  wished  me  to  introduce  you,  as  it  v.-t  e, 
by  stratagem.  Confident,  however,  that  you 
would  thus  far  yield  to  the  caprice  of  a  lady,  I 
chose  .to  tell  you  the  truth.  She  resides  near  by, 
and  it  will  not  hinder  you  long/' 

"  It  is  capriciousness  in  the  extreme,"  thought 
Alonzo,  but  he  told  the  stranger  he  would  ac 
company  him  ;  who  immediately  stepped  into 
the  carnage  and  they  drove,  by  his  direction,  to 
an  elegant  house  in  a  street  at  a  little  distance, 
and  alighted.  As  they  entered  the  house,  a  ser 
vant  handed  the  stranger  a  note,  which  he  hastily 
looked  over  ;  "'tell  the  gentleman  I  will  \vait  on 
him  in  a  moment,"  said  he  to  the  servant,  who 
instantly  withdrew.  Turning  to  Alonzo,  "  a  per 
son  is  in  waiting  [said  he]  on  urgent  business  — 
excuse  me  therefore,  if  it  is  with  reluctance  I  re 
tire  a  few  moments  after  I  have  announced  yoti  ; 
J  will  soon  again  be  with  you." 

They  then  ascended   a  flight   of  stairs  ;  the 
.nger  opened  the  door  of  a  chamber—*  The 


17<?  AIONZO  AN6  MELISSA." 

gentleman  I  mentioned  to  you,  madam,"  he  snid  * 
Alonzo  entered,  the  stranger  closed  the  door  and 
retired.     The  lady   was   sitting  by  a  window  at 
the  lower  end  of  the  room,  bat  arose  as  Aios  zo 
ivas   announced.      She    was  dressed  in  sky  blue 
silk,  embroidered  with  bpangled  lace  ;  a  gemmed 
tiara  gathered  her  hair,  from  which  was  suspend 
ed  a  green  veil,  according  to  the  mode  of  those 
times;  a  silken  girdle  with  diamond  clasps,  sur 
rounded  her  waist,  and  a  brilliant  sparkled  upon 
her  bosom.     •"  The   stranger's  description    was 
not   exaggerated,    [thought  Alonzo]  for  except 
one,    I  have  never  seen  a  more  elegant  figure," 
and  he  almost  wished  the  veil  removed,  that  he 
might  behold  her  features. 

"  You  will  please  to  be  seated,  sir,  [she  said] 
I  know  not  how — I  feel  an  inconceivable  diffi 
dence  in  making  an  excuse  for  the  inconvenien 
ces  my  silly  caprices  have  given  von."  Enchant, 
ing  melody  was  in  her  voice  ! — Alonzo  knew  not 
\vhy,  but  it  thrilled  his  bosom  electrified  his 
soul,  and  vibrated  every  nerve  of  his  heart. — 
Confused  and  hurried  sensations,  melancholy  yet 
pleasing  ;  transporting  as  the  recurrence  of 
youthful  joys,  enrapturing  as  dreams  of  early 
childhood,  passed  in  rapid  succession  over  his 
imagination  !  She  advanced  towards  him,  and 
turned  aside  her  veil.  Her  eyes  were  suffused, 
and  tears  streamed  down  her  cheeks.  Alonzo 
started — his  whole  frame  shook  ! — he  gasped  for 
breath  ! — "  Melissa  !  [he  convt^sivclv  exclaim 
ed]  God  of  infinite  wonders  !— It  is  Melissa  !  r?; 


WELI.SSA.  .177 

Again  will  the  incidents  of  our  history  pro* 
duce  a  pause.  Our  sentimental  readers. will  ex 
perience  a  recurrence  of  sympathetic  sensibilities;, 
and  will  attend  more  eagerly  to  the  final  scene 
of  our  drama.  "  Melissa  alive  !  (may  they  say) 
Impossible  !  Did  not  Alonzo  see  her  death  an 
nounced  in  the  public  prints  ?  Did  not  her  coiis> 
in  at  New-London  inform  him  of  the  circumstan 
ces,  and  was  he  not  in  mourning  ?  Did  not  the 
dying  Beauman  eoafirn  the  melancholy  fact  ? 
And  was  not  the  unquestionable  testimony  of 
her  brother  Edgar  sufficient  to  seal  the  truth  of 
all  this  ?  Did  not  the  sexton's  wife,  who  knew 
not  Alonzo,  corroborate  it  ?  And  did  not  Alon- 
•zov  finally,  read  her  name,  her  age,  and  the  time 
of  her  death,  on  her  tomb-stone,  ^vhich  exactly 
•accorded  with  the  publication  of  her  death  in  the 
papers,  and  his  own  knowledge  of  her  age  ?  And 
is  not  this  sufficient  to  prove,  clearly  and  incon- 
testibly  prove  that  she  is  dead  ?  An<l  yet  here 
she  is  again  in  all  her  primitive  beauty  and  splen 
dour  !  No,  this  surely  can  never  be. — However 
the  author  may  succeed  in  his  description,  in 
painting  reanimated  nature,  he  is  no  magician,  or 
if  he  is,  he  cannot  raise  the  dead.  Melissa  has 
long  since  mouldered  into  dust,  and  he  has  raised 
tip  some  female  Martin  Guerre,  or  Thomas 
Hpag — some  person  from  whose  near  res-^n- 
blance  to  the  deceased,  he  thinks  to  impose  n  >o  i 
os,  and  upon  Alonzo  also,  for  Melissa.  Bat  it 
will  not  do ;  it  must  be  the  identical  Melissa 

herself,  or  it  might  as  well  be  her  likeness  iii  u 

Y 


178  ALONffO  ANB  MELISSA," 

snarble  statue.  What  !  can  Alonzo  realize  th& 
delicacies,  the  tenderness,  the  blandishments,  o£ 
Melissa  in  another  ?  Can  her  substitute  point 
him  to  the  rock  on  New- London  beach,  the  bow- 
er  on  her  favourite  hill,  or  so  feelingly  describe 
tlic  charms  of  nature  ?  Can  he,  indeed  find  in 
her  representative  those  alluring  graces,  that 
pensive  sweetness,  those  unrivalled  virtues  and 
matchless  worth,  which  he  found  in  Melissa,  and 
which  attracted,  fixed,  and  secured  the  youngest 
Affections  of  his  soul  ?  Impossible  !  Or  could  the 
author  even  make  it  out  that  Alonzo  was  de 
ceived  by  a  person  so  nearly  resembling  Melissa 
that  he  could  not  distinguish  the  difference,  yet 
to  hth  readers  he  must  unveil  the  deception,  and, 
of  course,"the  story  will  end  in  disappointment  ;- 
it  will  leave  an  unpleasant  and  disagreeable  im 
pression  on  the  mind  of  the  reader,  which  in 
novel  writing  is  certainly  wrong.  It  is  proved, 
as  clearly  as  facts  can  prove,  that  he  has  suffered 
Melissa  to  die,  and  since  she  is  dead,  it  is  totally 
beyond  his  power  to  bring  her  to  life — and  so  his 
history  is  intrinsically  good  for  nothing." 

Be  not  quite  so  hasty,  my  zealous  censor.-— 
Did  we  not  tell  you  tbat  we  were  detailing  facts  ? 
Shall  we  disguise  or  discolour  truth  to  please 
your  taste  ?  Have  we  not  told  you  that  disap 
pointments  are  the  lot  of  life  ?  Have  we  not, 
according  to  the  advice  of  the  moralist,  led  Alon 
zo  toths  temple  of  philosophy,  the  shrine  of  rea 
son,  and  the  sanctuary  of  religion  ?  If  ail  these 
these-  Alonzo  cannot  find  a,  balsam 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 


to  heal  his  wounded  bosom,  then  if,  in. 
despite  of  graves  and  tomb-  stones',  Melissa 
will  come  to  his  relief  ;  will  pour  the  balm  of 
•consolation  over  his  anguished'  soul,  cynical  crit 
ic,  cun  the  author  help  it  ? 

It  was  indeed  Melissa,  the  identical  Melissa, 
whom  Alonzo  ascended  a  tree  to  catch  a  last 
glimpse  of,  as  &*je  walked  up  the  avenue  to  the 
old  mansion,  after  they  had  parted  at  the  draw 
bridge,  on  the  morning  of  the  day  when  she  was 
so  mysteriously  removed  "  Melissa  !"  •>. 
**  Alonzo  !"  -  'Vere  all  they  could  articulate  £ 
and  frown  not,  my  fair  readers,  if  we  tell  you 
that  she  was  instantly  in  his  arms,  while  he  press* 
ed  his  ardent  lips  to  her  glowing  cheek. 

Sneer  not,  ye  callous  hearted  insensibles,  yft 
fastidious  prudes,  if  v»fe  inform  you  that  their 
tears  fell  in  one  intermingling  shower,  that  their 
sighs  wrafted  in  one  blended  breeze. 

The  sudden  opening  of  the  door  aroused  them 
to  a  sense  of  their  improper  situation  —  for  who 
but  must  consider  it  improper  to  find  a  young  la- 
dy  locked  in  the  arms  of  a  gentleman  to  whom 
she  had  just  been  introduced  ?  The  opening  of 
the  door,  therefore,  caused  them  quickly  to 
change  their  position,  not  so  hastily,  however,  but 
that  the  young  officer  who  then  entered  the  room. 
had  a  glimpse  of  their  situation.  4I  Aha  !  (said 
he)  have  I  caught  you  ?  Is  my  philosophic  Plato 
so  soon  metamorphosed  to  a  bon  ton  enarnarato  ? 
But  a  few  hours  ago,  sir,  and  you  were  proof  a- 
gainst  the  whole  arcana  of  beauty.,  and  all  the  m 


•180  AI/ON20  AND   MEtlSSA. 

tillcry  of  the  graces  ;  but  no  sooner  arc  you  for 
one  moment  tcte  a  tcte  with  a  fashionable  belle, 
than  your  heroism  and  your  resolutions  are  van 
quished,  your  former  ties  dissolved,  and  3  our 
deceased  charmer  totally  forgotten  or  neglected, 
by  the  virtue  of  a  single  glance.  Well  so  it  is; 
jdmorvmC't  omnia  is  my  motto;  to  thee,  all  con- 
quering  beauty,  our  firmest  determinations  must 
bow.  I  cannot  censure  you  for  discovering, 
though  late,  that  one  living  object  is  really  of 
more  intrinsic  value  than  two  dead  ones.  In 
deed,  sir,  I  cannot  but  applaud  your  determina 
tion."  TheJaws  of  honour  (said  Akmzo  smil 
ing)  compel  me  to  submit  to  become  the  subject 
of  your  raillery  and  deception  ;  I  am  in  your 
power.-'  "  I  acknowledge  (said  the  officer)  that 
I  ha^ve  a  little  deceived  you  ;  my  story  was  fiction 
founded  on  truth — the  novel  style  :  but  for  the 
deceptive  part,  you  may  thank  your  little  gipsey 
of  a  nymph  there  ;  [pointing  to  Melissa]  she 
planned  and  I  executed,"  "  How  ready  you 
gentlemen  are,  (replied  Melissa)  when  accused 
of  impropriety,  to  cast  the  blame  on  the  defence 
less  !  So  it  was  with  our  first  parents,  and  so  it 
is  still.  But  you  must  remember  that  Alonzo  is 
yet  to  hear  my  story  ;  there,  sir,  I  have  the  ad 
vantage  of  you."  "Then 'I  confess  (said  lie, 
looking  at  Alonzo)  you  Will  be  too  hard  for  me, 
and  so  1  will  say  no  more  about  it." 

Melissa  then  introduced  the  young  'officer  to 
Alonzo  by  the  appellation  of  Capt.  Wilmot. — 
'•*  He  is  the  son  of  my  deceased  uncle  (said  she) 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  )  181 

a  cousin  to  whom  I  am  much  indebted,  as  you 
shall  hereafter  know." 

A  coach  drove  up  to  the  door,  which  Melissa 
informed  Alonzo  was  her  uncle's,  and  was  sent 
to  convey  Alfred  and  her  home.  'c  You  will 
have  no  objection  to  breakfast  with  me  at  my  un 
cle's  (said  Alfred)  if  it  be  only  to  keep  our  cous 
in  Melissa  in  countenance."  Alonzo  did  not 
hesitate  to  accept  the  invitation  ;  they  immedi 
ately  therefore  entered  the  coach,  a  servant  took 
charge  of  Alonzo's  carriage,  and  they  drove  to 
the  seat  of  Col.  D who  with  his  family  re 
ceived  Alonzo  with  much  friendship  and  polite 
ness.  Alfred  had  apprized  them  of  Alonzo's  ar 
rival  in  town,  and  of  Course  he  was  expected. 

Col.  D was  about  fifty  years  old,  his  man 
ners  were  majestically  grave  and  commanding, 
yet  polished  and  polite.  His  family  consisted  of 
an  amiable  wife,  considerably  younger  than  him 
self,  and  three  children  ;  the  eldest  son  about  tea 
years  of  age,  and  two  daughters,  one  seven,  the 
other  four  years  old  Harmony  and  cheerfulness 
reigned  in  this  family,  which  diffused  tranquillity 
and  ease  to  its  members  and  its  guests. 

it  was  agreed  that  Alonzo  should  pass  a  few 
days  at  the  house  of  Melissa's  uncle,  when  Me 
lissa  was  to  accompany  him  to  Connecticut.  Al 
fred,  with  some  other  officers,  was  recruiting  for 
the  army,  where  his  regiment  then  lay,  ai-d  which 
he  was  shortly  to  join.  He  could  not,  therefore, -t 
be- constantly  at  his  uncle's,  though  he  was  prin- 
cipaliy  there  while  Alonzo  staid;  but  being  ab- 


182  ALONZO   AND  MELfSSA. 

sent  the  day  after  his  arrival,  Melissa  and  Alonzo 
having  retired  to  a  room  separate  from  the  fami- 
Iy,  she  gave  him  the  following  account  of  what 
happened  after  they  had  parted  at  the  old  man 
sion. 

"  The  morning  after  you  left  me  (she  said] 
John  came  to  the  bridge  and  calltd  to  be  let  in 
I  immediately  went  to  the  gate,  opened  it,  anc 
let  down  the  bridge.  John  informed  me  that  mj 
aunt  had  suddenly  and  unexpectedly  arrived  tha 
morning  in  company  with  a  strange  gentleman 
and  that  he  had  come  for  the  keys,  as  my  ana 
\vas  to  visit  the  mansion  that  da^.  I  strove  t< 
persuade  John  to  leave  the  keys  in  my  posses 
sion,  and  that  I  would  make  all  easy  with  rrn 
aunt  when  she  arrived.  This,  though  with  mucl 
reluctance,  he  at  length  consented  to,  and  depart 
ed.  Soon  after  this  my  aunt  came,  and  wit  hou 
much  ceremony,  demanded  the  keys,  insinuating 
that  I  had  obtained  them  from  John  by  imposi 
tion,  and  for  the  basest  purposes.  This  arousec 
me  to  indignation,  and  I  answered  by  infonnim 
her  that  whatever  purposes  the  persecution  am 
cruelty  of  my  family  had  compelled  me  to  adopt 
sny  conscience,  under  present  circumstances,  ap 
proved  them,  and  I  refused  to  give  her  the  keys 
She  then  ordered  me  to  prepare  to  leave  the  man 
sion,  and  accompany  her  to  her  residence  at  th< 
house  of  John.  I  told  her  that  I  had  been  placet 
thereby  my  father,  and  should  not  consent  to  i 
removal  unless  by  his  express  orders.  She  ther 
left  me.  intimating  that  she  would  soon  let  me 


AICT-NZO  AND  MELISSA,  183 

know*  that  her  authority  was  not  to  be  thus  tram- 
pled  upon  with  impunity,  r 

14  I  immediately  raised  the  bridge  and  made 
fast  the  gate,  determining,  on  no  considerations, 
to  suffer  it  to  be  opened  until  evening.  The  day 
passed  away  without  any  occurrence  worthy  of 
note  and  as  soon  as  it  was  dark,  I  went,  opened 
the  gate,  and  cautiously  let  down  the  bridge.  I 
then  returned  to  the  mansion,  and  placed  the  can 
dle,  as  we  had  concerted,  at  the  window.  Shortly 
after  I  heard  a  carriage  roll  over  the  bridge  and 
proceed  up  the  avenue.  My  heart  fluttered  ;  I 
wished,  I  hardly  knew  what  I  did  wish  but  ife^i*ed 
I  was  about  to  act  improperly,  as  I  had  no  other 
idea  but  that  it  was  you,  Alonzo,  who  was  ap 
proaching.  The  carriage  stopped  near  the  door 
of  the  mansion,  a  foot-step  ascended  the  stairs  ; 
judge  of  my  surprise  and  agitation  when  rny  fa 
ther  entered' the  chamber !  A  maid  and  two  men 
servants  followed  him.  He  directed  me  to  make 
immediate  preparations  fDr  leaving  the  mansion, 
which  command,  with  the  assistance  of  the  ser 
vants,  I  obeyed  with  a  heart  too  full  for  utterance. 
As  soon  as  I  was  ready,  we  entered  th£  carriage, 
which  drove  rapidly  away.  As  we  passed  out  of 
the  gate,  I  looked  back  at  the  mansion,  and  sav/ 
the  light  of  the  candle,  which  I  had  forgotten  to 
remove,  streaming  from  the  window,  and  it  was 
by  an  extraordinary  effort  that  I  prevented  my 
self  from  fainting.  The  carriage  drove,  as  near 
as  I  could  judge,  about  ten  miles,  when  we  stop 
ped  at  an  inn  for  the  night,  except  my  father,  who 


184  ALONZfr  AND  &iE£!SSA7 

returned  home  on  horseback    leaving  me  at  the 
inn  in  company  with  the  servants,  where  the  car 
riage  also  remained.     The    maid   was   a  person, 
who  had  been  attached  to  me  from  my  infancy. 
I  a-jkt-d  her  whether  she  could  explain  these  mys 
terious  proceedings.     '    All  I  know,  Miss,  1  will 
tell  you  ;  (said  she)  your  fither  received  a  letter 
to-day  from  your  aunt,  which  put  him  in  a  terri 
ble  fluster  ;  he  immediately  ordered  his  carriage 
and  directed  us   to  attend   him.     He   met  your 
aunt  at  a  tavern  somewhere  away  back,  and  she 
told  him  that  the  gentleman   who  used  to  come 
to  our  house  so  much  once  had  contrived  to  car 
ry  you  off  fr6m  the  place  where    you   lived  with 
her  ,  so  your  father   concluded   to  send  you  to 
your  uncle's  in  Carolina,  and  said  that  I  must  go 
with  you  :  and  to  tell  you  the  truth,  Miss,  I  was- 
not  displeased  with  it,  for  your  father  has  grown 
so  sour  of  late,  th.it  we  have  little  peace  in  the 
house." — By  this  I  found  that  my  fate  was  fixed, 
and  I  gave  myself  tip.  for  some  time,  to  unavail 
ing  sorrow.      The    maid   informed  me  that  my 
mother  was  well,  which  was  one  sweet  consola 
tion  among  my   many  troubles— -but  she  knew 
nothing  of  my  father's  late  conduct. 

ct  The  next  morning  we  proceeded  and  I  was 
hurried  on  by  rapid  stages  to  the  Chesapeak, 
where,  with  the  maid  and  one  man-servant,  I  was 
put  on  board  a  packet  for  Charleston,  at  which 
place  we  arrived  in  due  time. 

"  My  uncle  and  his  family  received  me  with 
much  tenderness ;  the  servant  delivered  a  pack- 


AND  MELISSA, 


age  jrxf  letters  to  my  uncle  from  my  father.  The 
Carriage  with  one  servant  (the  driver)  had  re 
turned  from  the  Chesapeak  to  Connecticut. 

"  My  father  had  but  one  brother  and  two  sis 
ters,  of  which  my  uncle  here  is  the  youngest. — 
O  e  of  my  aunts,  the  old  maid,  who  was  my  pro 
tectress  at  the  old  mansion,  you  have  seen  at  my 
father's  ;  the  other  was  the  mother  of  Alfred  : 
she  married  very  young,  to  a  gentleman  in  Hart 
ford,  of  the  name  of  Wilmot,  who  fell  before  the 
walls  of  Louisburg,  in  the  old  French  war.  My 
aunt  did  not  long  survive  him  ;  her  health  which 
had  been  for  some  time  declining,  received  so 
serious  a  shock  by  this  catastrophe,  that  she  died 
a  few  months  after  the  melancholy  tidings  arriv 
ed,  leaving  Alfred,  their  only  child,  then  an  in 
fant,  to  the  protection  of  his  relations,  who,  a's 
soon  as  he  arrived  at  a  suitable  age,  placed  him 
at  school. 

"  My  grandfather,  who  had  the  principal  man 
agement  of  Mr.  Wil mot's  estate,  sent  my  uncle, 
who  was  then  young  and  unmarried,  to  Hartford, 
for  the  purpose  of  transacting  the  necessary  bu 
siness.  Here  he  became  acquainted  with  a  young 
lady,  eminent  for  beauty  and  loveliness,  but 
without  fortune,  the  daughter  of  a  poor  mechanic. 
As  soon  as  my  grandfather  was  informed  of  this 
attachment,  he,  in  a  very  peremptory  manner, 
ordered  my  uncle  to  break  off  the  connection  oil 
pain  of  his  highest  displeasure.  Bat  such  is  the 
force  of  early  impressions,  [Melissa  sighed]  that 
my  uncle^fbund  it  impossible  to  submit  to  these 


186 

firm  injunctions;  a  clandestine  marriage  ensued, 
and  my  grandfather's  maledictions  in  conse 
quence.  The  union,  was,  however,  soon  dissol 
ved  ;  my  uncle's  wife  died  in  about  twelve 
months  after  their  marriage,  and  soon  after  the 
birth  of  the  first  child;  which  was  a  daughter. — 
Inconsolable  and  comfortless,  my  uncle  put  the 
child  out  to  nurse,  and  travelled  to  the  south.— 
After  wandering  about  for  some  time,  he  took 
up  his  residence  in  Charleston,  where  he  amass 
ed  a  splendid  fortune.  He  finally  married  to  an 
amiable  and  respectable  woman,  whose  tender^ 
ness,  though  it  did  not  entirely  remove,  yet  soon 
greatly  alleviated  the  pangs  of  early  sorrow,  and 
this,  added  to  the  little  blandishments  of  a  youno* 
family,  fixed  him  in  a  state  of  mere  contented- 
aiess  than  he  once  ever  expected  to  see.  His 
daughter,  by  his  first  wife,  when  she  became  of 
proper  age,  was  sent  to  a  respectable  boarding- 
school  in  Boston,  where  she  remained  until  with 
in  about  two  years  before  I  came  here.  Alfred 
was  educated  at  Harvard  College  ;  as  soon  as  he 
had  graduated  he  came  here  on  my  uncle's  re 
quest,  and  has  since  remained  in  his  family. 

"  Soon  after  I  arrived  here,  my  uncle  came  in 
to  my  chamber  one  day  ;  "  Melissa,  (said  he)  I 
find  by  your  father's  letters  that  he  considers  you 
to  have  formed  an  improper  connection  ;  I  wish 
you  to  give  me  a  true  statement  of  the  matter, 
and  if  any  thing  can  be  done  to  reconcile  you  to 
your  father,  you  may  depend  upon  my  assistance, 
eea  some  troubles  in  this  way  myself,  in 


AlONZO  AND  MEtlSSA* 

Iny  early  days  ;  perhaps  my  counsel  may  be  of 
some  service."  I  immediately  gave  a  correct 
account  of  every  particular  circumstance  from 
the  time  of  my  first  acquaintance  with  you  until 
my  arrival  at  this  house.  He  sat  some  time  si- 
lent,  a<id  then  told  me  that  my  father,  he  believ 
ed,  had  drawn  the  worst  side  of  the  picture  and 
that  he  had  urged  him  to  exert  every  means  in 
his  power  to  reclaim  me  to  obedience  ;  that  Beau- 
man  was  to  follow  me  in  a  few  months,  and  that 
if  I  still  refused  to  yield  him  my  hand  my  father 
positively  and  bolemnlv  declared  that  he  would 
discard  me  forever,  and  strenuously  enjoined  it 
upon  him  to  do  the  same.  '•  I  well  know  my 
brother's  temper  ;  (continued  my  uncle)  the  case 
is  difficult,  but  something  must  be  done.  I  will 
immediately  write  to  your  father,  desiring  him 
not  to  proceed  too  rashly  ;  in  the  mean  time,  we 
must  consider  what  measures  to  pursue.  You 
must  not,  my  niece,  you  must  not  be  sacrificed." 
So  saying,  he  left  me,  highly  consolated  that  in 
stead  of  a  tyrant  I  had  found  a  friend  in  my  new 
protector. 

"  Alfred  was  made  acquainted  with  the  affair, 
and  many  were  the  plans  projected  for  my  bene- 
it>  and  abandoned  as  indefeasible,  till  an  event 
happened  which  called  forth  all  the  fortitude  of 
my  uncle  to  support  it,  and  operated  i«  the  end 
to  free  me  from  persecution. 

"  My  uncle's  daughter,  by  his  first  wife 
of  a  very  delicate  and  sickly   constitution,   and 
her  health  evidently  decreasing  after  she  canie  \<j 


1.88  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA? 

this  place,  she  was  sent  to  a  village  on  one  of  the 
high  hills  of  Pedee,  where  she  remained  a  con 
siderable  time  ;  she  then  went  to  one  of  the  in 
land  towns  in  North-Carolina,  from  whence  she 
had  but  just  returned  with  Alfred  when  I  arriv- 
e4  Afterwards  I  accompanied  her  to  George 
town,  and  other  places,  attended  by  her  father,  SQ 
that  she  was  little  more  known  in  Charleston 
than  myself.  But  all  answered  no  purpose  to  the 
restoration  of  her  health  ;  a^confirmed  hectic  car 
ried  her  off  in  the  bloom  of  youth. 

"  I  was  but  a  few  months  older  than  she  ;  her 
name  was  Melissa,  a  name  which  a  pious  grand- 
ariother  had  borne,  and  was  therefore  retained  in 
the  family.  Our  similarity  of  age,  and  in  some 
measure  of  appearance,  our  being  so  little  known 
in  Charleston,  and  our'  names  being  the  same, 
suggested  to  Alfred  the  idea  of  imposing  on  my 
father  by  passing  off  my  cousin's  death  as  my 
own.  This  would  at  least,  deter  Beauman  from 
prosecuting  his  intended  journey  to  Charleston; 
it  would  also  give  t'-me  for  farther  deliberation, 
and  might  so  operate  on  my  father's  feelings,  as 
to  soften  that  obduracy  of  temper,  which  deeply 
disquieted  himself  and  others,  and  thus  finally,  he 
productive  of  happily  effecting  the  designed  pur 
pose. 

"  My  uncle  was  too  deeply    overwhelmed  in. 

grief  to  be  particularly  consulted  on  this  plan. — 

however  entrusted   Alfred  to  act    wiih  full 

powers,  and  to  use  his  name  for  my.  interest,  if 

necessary,     Alfred  therefore  procured  A  publicu- 


ANB  MELISSA.  169 

tlon,  as  of  my  death,  in  the  Connecticut  papers, 
particularly  at  New- London,  the  native  place  of 
Beauman.  In  Charleston  it  was  also  generally 
supposed  that  it  was  the  niece,  and  not  the  daugh 
ter  of  Col.  D- ,  \\ho  hc;d  died  :  this  imposi 
tion  was  likewise  practised  upon  the  sexton,  who 
keeps  the  register  of  deaths.*  Alfred  then  wrote 
a  letter  to  my  father,  in  my  uncled  name,  stating 
the  particulars  of  my  cousin'b  death,  and  apply 
ing  them  to  me.  The  epitaph  on  her  tomb-stone 
was  likewise  so  devised  that  it  would  with  equal 
propriety  apply  either  to  her  or  to  me. 

"  To  undeceive  you,  Alonzo,  (continued  Me 
lissa)  was  the  next  object.  I  consulted  with  Al 
fred  how  this  should  be  done.  <c  My  sister,"  he 
said  [in  our  private  circles  he  always  called  me 
by  the  tender  name  of  sister]  *'  I  am  determined 
to  see  you  happy  before  I  relinquish  the  business 
I  have  undertaken  ;  letters  are  a  precarious 
mode  of  communication  ;  I  will  make  a  journey 
to  Connecticut^  find  out  Alonzo,  visit  your 
friends,  and  sefe  how  the  plan  operates.  I  am 
known  to  your  father,  who  has  ever  treated  me 
as  a  relative.  I  will  return  as  speedily  as  possi 
ble,  and  we  shall  then  know  what  measures  are 
best  lit  xt  to  pursue."  I  requested  him  to  unfold 
the  deception  to  my  mother,  and,  if  he  found  it 
expedient,  to  Vincent  and  Mr.  Simpson,  iii 
whose  friendship  and  fidelity  I  was  sure  he  might 
safely  confide. 

*  JL'his  was  formerly  the  case. 


190  4LONZO  AND  MELISSJU 

"  He  soon  departed,  and  returned  in  about  two 
jnonths.  He  found  my  father  and  mother  in  ex- 
treme  distress  an  account  of  my  supposed  death  ; 
my  mother's  grief  had  brought  her  on  the  bed  of 
sickness  ;  but  when  Alfred  hid  undeceived  her 
she  rapidly  revived.  My  father  told  Alfred  that 
lie  seriously  regretted  opposing  my  inclinations, 
and  that,  were  it  possible  he  could  retrace  the 
steps  he  had  taken,  he  should  conduct  in  a  very 
different  manner,  as  he  was  not  only  deprived  of 
me,  but  Edgar  also,  who  had  gone  to  Holland  in 
an  official  capacity,  soon  after  receiving  the 
tidings  of  my  death.  "  I  am  now  childless," 
.said  my  father  in  tears.  Alfred's  feelings  were 
moved,  and  could  "he  then  have  found  )ou, 
he  would  have  told  my  father  the  truth  ;  but  lest 
he  should  relapse  from  present  determinations, 
he  considered  it  his  duty  still,  with  him,  to  con 
tinue  the  deception. 

"  On  enquiring  at  your  father's,  at  Vincent's, 
and  at  Mr.  SimpsQii's,  he  could  learn  nothing  of 
you,  except  that  you  had  gone  to  New-London, 
judging  possibly  that  you  would  find  me  there. 
Alfred  therefore  determined  to  proceed  to  that 
place  immediately.  He  then  confidentially  un 
folded  to  your  father,  Vincent,  and  Mr.  Simpson, 
the  scheme,  desiring  thai  if  you  returned  you 
would  proceed  immediately  to  Charleston.  My 
father  was  still  to  be  kept  in  ignorance. 

"  Alfred  proceeded  immediately  to  New- Lon 
don  ;  from  my  cousin  there,  he  was  informed  of 
your  interview  witti  him,  but  from  whence  you 


ALONZO  AttD  &IELJS3A.  101 

then  eame,  to  where  you  went,  he  knew  not,  and 
after  making  the  strictest  enquiry,  he  could  hear 
nothing  more  of  you.  By  a  vessel  in  that  port, 
bound  directly  for  Holland,  he  wrote  an  account 
of  the  whole  affair  to  Edgar,  mentioning  his  un 
successful  search  to  find  you — and  returned  to 
Charleston. 

"  Alfred  learnt  from   my  friends  the  circum 
stances  which  occasioned  my  sudden  removal  from 
the  old  mansion.     The  morning  you  left  me  yoa 
was  discovered  by  my  aunt,  who  was  passing  the 
road  in  a  chair  with  a  gentleman,  whom  she  had 
then  but  recently  become  acquainted  with      My 
aunt  knew  you  ;    they    immediately   drove  to 
John's  hut.     On   finding  that   John  had  left  the 
keys  with  me,  she  sent  him  for  them  ;  and  on  my 
refusing  to  give  them  up,  she  came  herself,  as  I 
have  before  related  ;  and  as   she   succeeded  no 
better  than  John,  she  returned  and  dispatched  a 
message  to  my  father,  informed  him  of  the  cir 
cumstances,   and  her  suspicions  of  your  having 
been  to  the  mansion,  and  that  from  my  having 
possession  of  the  keys,  and  refusing.to  yield  them 
up,  there  was  little  doubt  but  that  we  had  form 
ed  a  plan  for  my  escape.     Alarmed  at  this  infor** 
mat  ion,  my  father  immediately  ordered  his  car 
riage,  drove  to  the  mansion,  and  removed  me  as 
I  have  before  informed  yon.     I  ought   to  have? 
told  you  that  the  maid  and  man-servant  who  at 
tended  me  to  Charleston,  not  liking  the  country, 
and  growing  sickly,  were  sent  back  by  my  uncle 
after  they  had  been  there  about  two  months." 


192  ALONZJD  ANDMELISSjJ 


Alonzo  found  by  this  narrative  that  John  had 
deceived  him  when  he  made  his  enquiries  of  him 
concerning  his  knowledge  of  Melissa's  removal. 
But  this  was  not  surprising  ;  John  was  tenant  to 
Melissa's  aunt  and  subservient  to  all  her  views  ; 
she  had  undoubiedly  given  him  instructions  how 
to  act. 

"  Bu1  who  was  the  strange  gentleman  with 
your  ciunt  ?"  enquired  Alonzo.  "  This  I  will 
also  tell  you  (un^wered  Melissa)  though  it  un 
folds  a  tale  which  reflects  no  great  honour  to  my 
family. 

"  Hamblin  was  the  name  which  this  man  assu 
med  ;  he  said  he  had  been  an  eminent  merchant 
in  New-  York,  and  had  left  jt  about  the  time  it 
\vas  taken  by  the  British.  He  lodged  at  an  inn 
where  my  aunt  frequently  stopped  when  she  was 
out  collecting  her  rents,  where  he.  first  introduced 
himself  to  her  acquaintance,  and  ingratiated  him- 
se'f  into  her  favour  by  art  and  insidionsness.  — 
He  accompanied  her  on  her  visits  to  her  tenants, 
and  assisted  her  in  collecting  her  rents.  He  told 
her  that  wher.  the  war  came  oh,  he  hid  turned 
his  effects  into  money,  which  he  had  with  him, 
and  was  now  in  pursuit  of  some  country  place 
where  he  might  purchase  a  residence  to  remain. 
during  the  war.  To  cut  the  stcn  as  short  as 
possible  he  finalh  initiated  himself  so  far  in  my 
aunt's  favour  that  she  accepted  his  hand  and  con 
trary  10  my  frher's  opinion,  she  married.hirr^ 
a;  el  he  soon  aiVr  persuaded  i.er  to  sell  her  prop 
erty,  under  pretence  of  removing  to  some  popu* 


AL6NZO  ANA  MELISSA* 


loits  town,  and  living  in  style  ;  her  property, 
however,  was  no  sooner  sold  (which  my  father 
bought  for  ready  cash,  at  a  low  price)  than  life 
found  means  to  realize  the  money,  and  absc>QRd- 
ed.  It  was  afterward^  found  that  his  real  namfc 
was  Brenton  ;  that  he  had  left  a  wife  and  family 
in  Virginia  in  indigent  circumstances,  where  h£ 
had  spent  an  ample  fortune>  left  him  by  his  fath 
er,  in  debauchery,  and  involved  himself  deeply 
in  debt.  He  had  scarcely  time  to  get  off  with 
the  booty  he  swindled  from  my  aunt,  when  his 
creditors  from  Virginia  were  at  his  heels.  He 
fled  to  the  British  at  New-York,  where  he  rioted 
for  a  few  months,  was  finally  stabbed  by  a  soldier 
in  a  fracas,  and  died  the  next  day.  He  was  about 
thirty-five  years  old.  All  these  troubles  bore  s6 
heavily  upon  my  aunt,  that  she  went  into  a  de 
cline,  and  died  about  six  months  ago, 

"  After  Alfred  returned  from  Connecticut,  hfc 
wrote  frequently  to  Vincent  and  Mr.  Simpson, 
but  could  obtain  no  intelligence  concerning  you. 
It  would  be  needless,  Alonzo,  to  describe  my 
conjectures,  my  anxieties,  my  feelings  !  —  The 
death  of  my  cousin  and  aunt  had  kept  me  in  crapfe 
until  at  the  instance  of  Alfred  I  put  it  off  yester 
day  morning  at  my  uncle's  house,  which  Alfred 
had  proposed  for  the  scene  of  action,  after  hfc 
had  discovered  the  cause  of  my  fainting  at  the 
theatre.  I  rlid  not  readily  come  into  Alfred's 
plan  to  deceive  you  :  "  Suffer  me  (he  said)  to  try 
the  constancy  of  your  Leander  ;  I  doubt  whetiv- 

er.he  would  swim  the  Hellespont  far.  you."  This 
A  a 


ALOSTJZO  AND  MELISSA* 

aroused  my  pride  and  confidence,  and  T  permitted, 
him  to. proceed." 

Alonzo  then  gave  Melissa  a  minute  ace  nint  of 
all  that  happened  to  him  from  the  time  •!  i;Kir 
parting  at  the  old  mansion,  until  h  .  ri  with  her 
the  day  before.  At  the  mention  of  b<.  <:<i;  .  's 
fate,  Melissa  sighed.  "  With  hou  many  v.,'.a 
fears  (said  she)  was  I  pcrpU  x:d.  lest,  by  some 
means  he  should  discover  mv  existence  and 
place  of  residence,  after  he.  alas  !  was  silent  in 
the  tomb!" — Alonzo  told  Melissa  that  he  had 
received  a  lefter  from  Edgar  after  he  arrived  in 
Holland,  and  that  he  had  written  him  an  answfry 
just  as  he  left  Paris,  informing  him  of  his  reasons 
for  returning  to  America. 

When  the  time  arrived  that  Alonzo  and  Melis 
sa  were  t6  set  out  for  Connecticut,  Melissa's  un 
cle  and  Alfred  accompanied  ihem  as  far  as 
Georgetown,  where  an  affectionate  parting  took 
place  ;  the  latter  returned  to  Charleston,  and  the 
former  proceeded  on  their  journey. 

Philadelphia  was  now  in  possession  of  the 
British  troops.  Alonzo  found  Dr.  Franklin's  a- 
gent  at  Chester,  transacted  his  business,  went 
on,  arrived  at  Vincent's,  where  he  left  Melissa, 
and  proceeded  immediately  t*his  father's. 

The  friends  of  Alonz©  and  Melissa  were  joy- 
surprised  at  their  arrival.     Melissa's  moth 
er  was  sent  for  to    Vincent's.     Let   imagination 
it  the  meeting  !  As  yet,  however,  they  were- 
;>ared  to  undeceive  her  father.. 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA.  195 

found  his  parents  in  penurious  circum- 
stances  indeed  his  father  having,  the  preceding 
suauuer  been  too  indisposed  to  manage  his  little 
fann  with  attention,  and  being  unable  to  hire  la- 
bour'ers,  his  crops  had  yielded  but  a  scanty  sup 
ply,  and.  he  had  been  compelled  to  sell  most  of 
his  stock  to  answer  pressing  demands*  With 
great  joy  they  welcomed  Alonzo,  whom  they 
had  given  up  as  lost.  "  You  still  find  your  fath 
er  poor,  Alonzo,  (said  the  old  gentleman)  but 
you  fi^d  hi  si!  still  honest.  From  my  inability  to 
labour  we  have  latterly  been  a  little  more  press 
ed  than  usual,  but  having  now  recovered  ;ny 
health,  I  trust  that  difficulty  will  soon  be  remJv' 
ed." 

Alonzo  asked  his  father  if  he  ever  knew  Dr. 
Franklin.  "  We  were  school- mates  (he  replied) 
and  were  intinrur.elv  acquainted  after  we  became 
young  men  in  business  for  ourselves  We  have 
-done  each  other  favours  ;  I  once  divided  my  mo 
ney  with  Franklin  on  an  urgent  occasion  to  him  ; 
he  afterwatds  repaid  me  with  ample  interest— he 
will  never  forget  it."  Alonzo  then  related  to  his 
father  all  the  incidents  of  his  travels,  mi  nut  civ 
particularizing  the  disinterested  "conduct  of 
Franklin,  and  then  presented  his  father  with  the 
reversion  of  his  estate.  The  old  man  fell  on  his 
knees,  and,  with  tears  streaming  down  his  with 
ered  cheeks,  offered  devout  thanks  to  the  great 
Dispenser  of  all  mercies. 

Alonzo  then  visited  Melissa's  father,  who  re 
ceived  him  with  much  complacency  r  "  I  have 


AXONZO   ANO   MEIISSAj, 

injured  (said  lie)  my  young  friend,  deeply  injur 
ed  you .  but  in  cl  >ing  this  I  have  inflicted  a  wound 
still  deeper  in  my  own  bosom."     Alonzjj  desir 
ed  him  not   to   renew  his   sorrows  :   4t  What  is 
past  (said  he)  is  beyond  recal ;  but  a  subject   of 
some  importance  to  me,  is  the  object  of  my  pres 
ent  visit.     True  it  is,  that  your  daughter  was  the 
.subject  of  my  earliest  affection,  an  affection  which 
iny  bosom  must  ever  retain  ;  but  being  separat 
ed  by  the  will  of  Providence — for  I  >iew  Provi 
dence  as  overruling  all  events  for  wise  purposes — 
I  betook  myself  to  travel.     Time,  you  know  it 
Is  said,  sir,  will  blunt  the  sharpest  thorns  of  sor 
row  :   [the  old  man  sighed]  in  my  travels  I  have 
found  a  lady  so  nearly  resembling  your  daughter, 
that  I  was  induced  to  sue  for  her  hand,  and  have 
been  so  happy  as  to  gain  the  promise  of  it.    The 
favour  I  have  to  ask  of  you,  sir,  is  only  that  you 
will  permit  the  marriage  ceremony  to  be  celebra 
ted  in   >our   house,   as  you  know   my    father  is 
poor,'  his  house  small  and  inconvenient,  and  that 
you    will   also   honour  me  by    giving   the   lady 
away.     In  receiving  her  from) our  hands,  I  -hall 
in  some  measure  realize  former  anticipation  ;   I 
shall  receive  her  in  the  character  of  Melissa  !" 

"  Ah  !  (said  Melissa's  father)  were  it  in  my 
power — could  I  bnt  give  you  the  original  !  But 
how  vain  that  wish  !  Yes,  my  young  friend,  your 
request  shall  be  punctually  complied  with  ;  I  will 
take  upon  myself  the  preparations  j  name  your 
<]ay,  and  if  the  lady  is  portior.less>  in  that  she 
"1  be  to  me  .a  Mejigsa,"  AJonzo  bowed  his 


AL6NZO  AN»  MELISSA. 

gratitude,  and  after  appointing  that  day  week,  de 
parted. 

Invitations  were  once  more  sent  abroad  for  the 
wedding  of  Alonzo  and  Melissa.  Few.  indeed, 
knew  it  to  be  the  real  Melissa,  but  they  were 
generally  informed  of  Alonzo's  reasons  for  pre 
ferring  the  celebration  at  her  father's. 

The  evening  before  the  day  on  Which  the  mar 
riage  was  to  take  place,  Alonzo  and  Melissa 
were  sitting  with  the  Vincents  in  an  upper  room, 
"when  a  person  rapped  at  the  door  below.  Vin 
cent  went  down,  and  immediately  returned,  inn 
troducing,  to  the  joy  and  surprise  of  the  compa 
ny,  Edgar  ! Here,  again,  we  shall  leave  it  for 

the  imagination  to  depict  the  scene  of  an  affec 
tionate  brother,  meeting  a  tender  and  only  sister, 
whom  he  had  long  since  supposed  to  be  dead  ! 
He  had  been  at  his  father's,  and  his  mother  hod  let 
him  into  the  secret,  when  he  immediately  hasten 
ed  to  Vincent's.  He  told  them  that  he  did  not 
stay  long  in  Holland  ;  that  after  receiving  Alon 
zo's  letter  from  Paris,  he  felt  an  unconquerable 
propensity  to  return,  and  soon  sailed  for  America, 
arrived  at  Boston,  came  to  New-Haven,  took  or 
ders  in  the  ministry,  and  had  reached  home  that 
day.  He  informed  them  that  Mr.  Simpson  and 
family  had  arrived  at  his  father's,  and  some  rela 
tives  iv horn  his  mother  had  invited. 

The  next  morning  ushered  in  the  day  in  which 
the  hero  and  heroine  of  our  story  were  to  con 
summate  their  felicity.  No  cross  purposes  stood 
ready  to  intervene  their  happiness,  no 


198  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

rival,  no  obdurate  father,  no  Watchful,  scow^ng 
aunt,  to  interrupt  their  transports.  It  was  the 
latter  end  of  May;  nature  was  arra-ud  in  her 
richest  ornaments,  and  adorned  with  her  sweetest 
perfumes.  The  sun  blended  its  mild  lustre  with 
the  landscapes'  lovely  green,  silk-winged  bree 
zes  frolicked  amidst  the-  flowers  ;  the  spring  birds 
carolled  in  varying  strains  : 

"  The  air  w,  s  fr^gr^nce,  tincl  the  world  w>s  love."    < 

Evening  was  appointed  for  the  the  ceremon\ ,  and 
Edgar  was  to  be  the  officiating  clergyman 

"  To  tie  those  bands  wnicn  nought  bill  death  Can  sever.** 

When  the  hour  arrived,  they  repaired  to  the 
house  of  Melissa's  father,  whe^e  numerous  guests 
had  assembled.  Melissa  was  introduced  into 
the  bridal  apartment,  and  took  her  seat  among  a 
brilliant  circle  of  ladies.  She  w;ts  attired  in  robes 
"  white  as  the  southern  clouds,"  spangled  with 
silver,  and  trimmed  \^ith  d< .  ep  i.;o!d  lace  ;  her 
hair  hung  loosely  upon  her  sboulde;s,  encircled 
by  a  wreath  of  artificial  flowers.  She  had  regain- 
ed  all  her  former  loveliness  ;  th^  ro^e  and  the 
lily  again  blended  their  tinges  in  her  cheek  ;  a- 
gain pens've  sprightliness  sparkled  in  her  eye. — 
Alonzo  was  now  introduced  and  took  his  seat  at 
the  side  of  Melissa  ;  his  father  and  mother  carne 
next,  who  were  placed  at  the  right  hand  of  the 
young  couple,  Melissa's  parents  followed,  and 
\vere  stationed  at  the  left  ;  Edgar  then  came  and 
took  his  seat  in  front,  after  which  the  guests 
were  summoned,  who  filled  the  room.  Edgar 
then  rising,  motioned  to  the  intended  bride  and 


ALONZO  ANB  MELISSA^  199 

bridegroom  to  rise  also.  He  next  turned  to  A- 
lonzo's  father  for  his  sanction,  who  bowed  assent; 
then  addressing  his  own  Hither,  with  emotions 
that  scarcely  suffered  him  to  articulate,  "Do  you, 
sir,  (said  h< )  give  this  lady  to  that  gentleman  ?" 
A  solemn  silence  prevailed  in  the  room.  Melis 
sa  was  extremely  agitated,  as  her  father  slowly 
rising,  IK  d  with  down  cast  eyes,  <l  where  tides  of 
lieav\  sorrow  swelled,"  took  her  trembling  hand, 
and  conveying  it  into  Alonzo's,  "  May  the  smiles 
of  heaven  rest  upon  you,  (he  said)  may  future 
blessings  crown  your  present  happy  prospects—* 
and  may  your  latter  days  never  be  embittered  by 
the  premature  loss  of  near  and  dear "  Pun 
gent  grief  here  choaked  his  utterance,  and  at  this 
moment,  Melissa  falling  upon  her  knees,  "Dear 
father  !  [she  exclaimed,  bursting  into  tears]  par 
don  deception  ! — acknowledge  your  daughter — 
your  own  Melissa  !"  Her  father  started — he  ga 
zed  at  her  with  scrutinizing  attention — sunk  back 

in  his  chair. "  My  daughter !  [he  cried ]  God 

of  mysterious  mercy  !  it  is  my  daughter  !"  The 
guests  caught  the  contagious  sympathy  ;  convul 
sive  sobs  arose  from  all  parts  of  the  room.  Me 
lissa's  father  clasped  her  in  his  arms»  "  and  I  re 
ceive  thee  as  from  the  dead  !{ (he  said)  I  am  anx 
ious  to  hear  the  mighty  mystery  unfolded.  But 
first  let  the  solemn  rites  for  which  we  are  assem 
bled,  be  concluded,  let  not  an  old  man's  anxiety 
interrupt  the  ceremony." — "  But  you  are  appris 
ed,  sir,  [said  Alonzo]  of  my  inability  to  support 
your  daughter  according  to  her  deserts, "-"  Leave 


ALO&Z0  AND  MELISSA. 

that  tome,  [replied  her  father]  my  young  friend  ; 
I  have  enough  :  m}  children  are  restored,  and  I 
•am  ruu)py." 

Melissa  .soon  resumed  her  former  station  ;  the 
indissoluble-  knot  was  tied,  they  sat  down  to  the 
wedding  feast,  and  mirth  and  hilarity  danced  in 
cheerful  circles. 

Before  the  company  retired,  Edgar  related  the 
rnost  prominent  incidents  of  Alonzo  and  Melissa's 
history,  since  they  had  been  absent.  The  guests 
likened  with  attention  ;  they  applauded  the  con 
duct  of  our  new  bride  and  bridegroom,  in  which 
Melissa's  father  cordially  joined.  They  rejoiced 
to  find  that  Alonzo's  father  had  regained  his  for 
tune,  and  copious  libations  were  poured  forth  in 
honour  of  the  immortal  Franklin. 

And  now,  reader  of  sensibility,  indulge  the 
pleasing  .sensations  of  thy  bosom,  for  Alonzb 
and  Melissa  are  MARRIED. 

Al-'.mzo's  f^her  was  soon  in  complete  reposses 
sion  of  his  fb?  -ncr  property.  The  premises  frora 
which  he  h.ul  been  driven  by  his  u-  feeling  cred 
itors  T-\ere  yielded  up  without  difficulty,  and  to 
ivhirh  he  immediately  removed  He  not  only 
re-covered  the  principal  of  the  fortune  he  had  lost, 
but  the  d  •  rnges  and  the  interest  ;  so  that,  altho* 
like  Job  he  had  seen  affliction,  like  him  his  latter 
davs  were  better  than  his  beginning.  But  wea 
ried  with  the  bustles  of  life,  he  did  not  again  en 
ter  into  the  mercantile  business,  but  placing  his 
money  at  interest  in  safe  hands,  lived  retired  011 
his  Little  farm. 


ALONZO    A&D   MELISSA. 


adi 


A  few  clays  after  the  wedding,  as  Melissa  was 
sitting  with  Alonzo,  Edgar  and  her  parents  she 
asked  her  father  whether  the  old  mansion  was  in 
habited.  "  Not  by  human  beings  ;  [he  replied] 
sincSit  has  fallen  into  my  hands  I  have  leased  it 
to  three  or  four  different  families,  who  all  left  it 
under  the  foolish  pretence  or  impression  of  hear 
ing  noises  and  seeing  frightful  objects,  and  such 
is  the  superstition  of  people  that  no  one,  now,  will 
venture  to  try  it  again,  though  I  suppose  its  iru 
habitants  to  consist  only  of  rats  and  mice."  Me 
lissa  then  informed  them  of  all  that  had  happen- 
ed  when  she  was  there,  the  alarming  noises  ancl 
horrible  appearances  she  had  been  witness  to, 
and  in  which  she  was  confident  her  senses  had 
not  deceived  her.  Exceedingly  astonished  at 
her  relation,  it  was  agreed  that  Edgar  and  A.on- 
zo,  properly  attended,  should  proceed  to  the 
mansion,  in  order  to  find  whether  any  discoveries 
fcould  be  made  which  might  tend  to  the  elucida 
tion  of  so  mysterious  an  affair. 

For  this  purpose  they  chose  twenty  men,  ar'm- 
ed  them  with  muskets  and  swords,  and  proceed 
ed  to  the  place>  where  they  arrived  in  the  dusk 
of  the  evening,  having  chosen  that  season  as  the 
most  favourable  to  their  designs.  They  found 
the  draw-bridge  up  and  the  gate  locked,  as  Ed 
gar's  father  said  he  had  left  them.  They  enter- 
ed  and  secured  them  in  the  same  manner.  When 
they  came  to  the  house,  they  cautiously  unlock 
ed  the  door,  and  proceeded  to  the  chamber, 

where  they  struck  a  fire  and  lighted  candles, 
Bb 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

-which  they  had  brought  with  them.  It  was  then 
agreed  to  plant  fifteen  of  the  men  at  suitable  dis 
tances  around  the  mansion,  and  retain  five  in  the 
chamber  "with  Alonzo  and  Edgar.  The  men 
who  were  placed  around  the  house  were  station 
ed  behind  trees,  stumps  or  rocks,  and  where  no 
object  presented,  lay  flat  on  the  ground,  with  or 
ders  not  to  stir,  or  discover  themselves  let  what 
v/ould  ensue,  unless  some  alarm  should  be  given 
from  the  house.  Alonzo  and  Edgar  were  armed 
with  pistols  and  side  arms,  and  posted  themselves 
with  the  five  men  in  the  chamber,  taking  care 
that  the  lights  should  not  shine  against  the  win 
dow-shutters,  so  that  nothing  could  be  discover 
ed  from  without.  Things  thus  arranged,  they 
observed  almost  an  implicit  silence,  no  one  being 
allowed  to  speak,  except  in  a  low  whisper. 

For  a  long  time  no  sound  was  heard  except 
the  hollow  roar  of  winds  in  the  neighbouring  for 
est,  their  whistling  around  the  angles  of  the 
mansion,  or  the  hoarse  murmurs  of  the  distant 
surge.  The  night  was  dark,  and  only  illuminat 
ed  by  the  feeble  twinkling  of  half  clouded  stars. 
They  had  watched  until  about  midnight,  when 
r  they  were  alarmed  by  noises  in  the  rooms  below, 
among  which  they  could  distinguish  foot-steps 
and  human  voices*  Alonzo  and  Edgar  then  ta 
king  each  a  pistol  in  one  hand  and  a  drawn  sword 
in  the  other,  ordered  their  men  to  follow  them, 
prepared  for  action.  Coming  to  the  head  of  the 
stairs,  the}  saw  a  brilliant  light  streaming  into 
hall  ;  they  therefore  concluded  to  take  n& 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

candles,  and  to  prevent  discovery  they  took  off 
their  shoes.  When  they  came  into  the  hall  op 
posite  the  door  of  the  room  from  whence  the 
light  and  noises  proceeded,  they  discovered  ten 
men  genteelly  dressed,  sitting  around  a  table,  on 
which  was  placed  a  considerable  quantity  of  gold 
and  silver  coin,  a  number  of  glasses  and  several 
decanters  of  wine.  Alonzo  and  his  party  stood 
a  few  minutes,  listening  to  the  following  dis 
course,  which  took  place  among  thisg/wstiy  gen 
try. 

"  Well  boys  !  we   have  made  a  fine  haul  this 
trip." — "  Yes,  but  poor  Bob,  though, was  plump'd 

over  by  the  d d  skulkers  !"_*«  Aye,  and  had 

we  not  tugged  bravely  at  the  oars,  they  would 
have  hook'd  us." — <fc  Rascally  cow-boys  detained 
us  too  long." — ;*v  Wei),  well,  never  mind  it  ;  let 
us  knock  around  the  wine,  and  then  divide  the 
spoil,"  At  this  moment,  Alonzo  and  Edgar, 
followed  by  the  five  men,  rushed  into  the  room, 
crying,  "  Surrender^  or  you  are  all  dead  men  /" 
In  an  instant  the  room  was  involved  in  pitchy 
darkness  ;  a  loud  crash  was  heard,  then  a  scam 
pering  about  the  floor,  and  a  noise  as  if  several 
doors  shut  to,  with  violence.  They  however 
gave  the  alarm  to  the  men  without,  by  loudly, 
shouting  "  Look  out  /"  and  immediately  the  dis 
charge  of  several  guns  was  heard  around  the 
mansion.  One  of  the  men  flew  up  stairs  and 
brought  a  light,  but,  to  their  utter  amazemertt, 
no  person  was  to  be  discovered  in  the  room  ex 
ec  pftheir  o\yn  party,  The  table,  with  its  IVL, 


£04  v&LONZO  AND   MELISSA* 

ratus,  and  the  chairs  on  which  these  now -in visi 
ble  beings  hid  sat,  hid  disappeared,  not  a  single 
trace  of  them  being  left.  While  they  stood  pe 
trified  with  astonishment,  the  men  from  without 
called  for  admittance.  The  door  being  'unlocked, 
they  led  in  a  stranger  wounded,  whom  they  im. 
mediately  discovered  to  be  one  of  those  they  had 
seen  at  the  table. 

The  men  who  had  been  stationed  around  the 
mansion  informed  that  some  time  before  the  a- 
larm  was  made,  they  saw  a  number  of  persons 
crossing  the  yard  from  the  western  part  of  the 
enclosure,  towards  the  house  ;  that  immediately 
after  the  shout  was  given,  they  discovered  seve 
ral  people  running  back  in  the  same  direction  ; 
they  hailed  them,  which  being  disregarded,  they 
fired  upon  them,  one  of  whom  they  brought 
down,  which  was  the  wounded  man  they  had 
brought  in.  The  others,  though  they  pursued 
them,  got  oft.  The  prisoner's  wound  was  j>«.-t 
dangerous  ;  the  bill  had  shattered  hjfc.;..rm,  aucl 
glanced  upon  his  breast.  The)  dressed  his  wound 
as  well  as  they  could,  arid  then  requested  him  to 
unfold  the  circumstances  ol  the  suspicious  ap* 
pearance  in  which  he  was  involved. 

9 

"  First  promise  me,  on  your  hgnour,  (said  the 
stranger)  thct  you  will  use  your  influence  to  pre 
vent  my  being  puaished  or  imprisoned."  This 
they  readily  agreed  to  on  condition  that  he 

;<y.u  nothing  from   them,  -ami  he 
•in  the  following  relation. 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA-.  50& 

That  they  were  a  part  of  a  gang  of  illicit  tra 
ders  ;  men  who  had  combined  for  the  purpose 
of  carrying  on  a  secret  and  illegal  commerce  with 
the  British  army  on  Long  Island,  whom,  contra 
ry  to  the  existing  laws,  they  supplied  with  pro 
visions,  and  brought  off'  English  goods,  which 
they  sold  at  a  very  extortionate  price.  But  this 
was  not  all ;  they  also  brought  over  large  quanti 
ties  of  counterfeit  continental  money,  which  they* 
put  off  among  the  Americans  for  live  stock,  poul 
try  produce,  &c.  which  they  carried  to  the  island. 
The  counterfeit  money  they  purchased  by  mere- 
ly  paying  for  the  printing  ;  the  British  having 
obtained  copies  of  the  American  emission,  struck 
immense  quantities  of  it  in  New- York,  and  insid 
iously  sent  it  out  into  the  country,  in  order  to 
sink  our  currency.  This  gang  was  likewise  con 
nected  with  the  cow-boys,  who  made  it  their  bu 
siness  to  steal,  not  only  milch  cows,  and  other 
cattle,  but  also  hogs  and  sheep,  which  they  drove 
by  night  to  some  convenient  place  on  the  shores 
of  the  Sound,  where  these  tfref -partners  received 
them,  and  conveyed  them  to  the  British. 

'*  In  otir  excursions  across  the  Sound  (continu 
ed  the  wounded  man)  we  had  frequently 'observ 
ed  this  mansion,  which,  from  every  appearance, 
we  were  convinced  was  uninhabited  ;  we  there- 
fore  selected  it  as  a  suitable  place  for  our  future 
rendezvous,  which  had  heretofore  been  only  In 
the  open  woods.  To  cross  the  moat,  we  drag 
ged  up  an  old  canoe  from"  the  sea-shore,  which 
we  concealed  in  the  bushes  as  soon  as  we  re* 


AND  MELISSA.' 

crossed  from  the  old  mansion.  To  get  over  the 
wall  we  used  ladders  of  ropes,  placing  a  flbt  of 
thick  board  on.  the  top  of  the  spikes  driven  into 
the  wall.  We  found  more  difficulty  Li  getting 
into  the  house  ;  we  however  at  length  succeed 
ed,  by  tearing  away  a  part  of  the  back  wall, where 
we  fitted  in  a  door  so  exactly,  and  so  nicely  paint* 
ed  it,  that  it  could  not  be  distinguished  from  the 
wall  itself.  This  cloor  was  so  constructed  that 
on  touching  a  spring  it  would  fly  open,  and  when 
unrestrained  would  shut  to,  with  violence.  Find 
ing  the  apartment  so  eligible  for  our  purpose, 
and  fearing  that  at  some  future  time  we  might 
be  disturbed  cither  by  the  owner  of  the  building 
or  sorhe  tenant,  we  cut  similar  doors  into  every 
room  of  the  house,  so  that  on  an  emergency  we 
could  traverse  every  apartment  without  access 
to  the  known  doors.  Trap- doors  on  a  similar 
construction,  communicated  with  the  cellar  ;  the 
table  which  you  saw  us  sitting  around,  stood  on 
one  of  those,  which,  on  your  abrupt  appearance, 
as  soon  as  the  candies  were  exiinguished,  was, 
with  its  contents,  precipitated  below  and  we  made 
our  escape  by  those  secret  doors,  judging"  that 
although  you  had  seen  us,  if  we  could  get  off 
you  would  be  unable  to  find  out  any  thing  which 
might  lead  to  our  discovery. 

"  A  circumstance  soon  occurred  which  tended 
to  embarr  ss  our  plans,  and  at  first  seemed  to  me 
nace  their  overthrow.  Our  assembling  at  the 
mansion  was  irregular,  as  occasion  and  circum 
stances  required  j  often  not  more  than  once  $ 


ALONZO  ANJ)  MELISSA.  £0? 

Week,  but  sometimes  more  frequent,  and  always 
in  the  night.  Late  one  night,  as  we  were  pro 
ceeding  to  the  mansion,  and  had  anived  near  it, 
suddenly  one  of  the  chamber  windows  was  open 
ed,  and  a  light  issued  from  within.  We  entered 
the  house  with  caution,  and  sobn  discovered  that 
some  person  was  in  the  chamber  from  whence 
we  had  seen  the  light.  We  remained  until  all 
was  silent  and  then  entered  the  chamber  by  one 
of  our  secret  doors,  and,  to  our  inexpressible 
surprise,  beheld  a  beautiful  young  lady,  asleep 
on  the  only  bed  in  the  room.  We  cautiously  re 
tired,  and  reconnoitring  all  parts  of  the  mansion, 
found  she  was  the  only  inhabitant  except  our- 
selves.  The  singularity  of  her  being  there  alone 
is  a  circumstance  we  have  never  been  able  to  dis 
cover,  but  it  gave  us  fair  hopes  of  easily  procur 
ing  her  ejectment.  We  then  immediately  with- 
drew,  and  made  preparations  to  dispossess  the 
fair  tenant  of  premises  to  which  we  considered 
ourselves  more  properly  entitled,  as  possessing 
a  prior  incumbency. 

We  did  not  effect  the  completion  of  our  appa 
ratus  under  three  or  four  days.  As  soon  as  v/e 
were  prepared,  we  returned  to  the  mansion.  As 
we  approached  the  house,  it  appears  the  lady 
heard  us,  for  again  she  suddenly  flung  up  a  win- 
dow  and  held  but  a  candle  :  we  skulked  from 
the  light,  but  feared  she  had  a  glimpse  of  us. — 
After  we  had  got  into  the  house  we  were  still, 
until-  we  supposed  her  to  be  asleep,  which  we 
found  to  be  the  aase  on  goin^  to  her  chamber,-— 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

We  then  stationed  one  near  her  bed,  who,  by  a 
loud  rap  on  the  floor  with  a  cane,  appeared  to  a- 
rouse  her  in  a  frh  ht.  Loud  noises  were  then 
made  below,  and  some  of  them  ran  heavily  up 
the  stairs  which  ltd  to  her  chamber,  the  person 
stationed  in  the  room  whispering  near*he*»bed-~ . 
shf  raised  herself  np,  and  he  fled  behind  the  cur 
tains.  Soon  'after  she  again  lay  down,  he  ap 
proached  nearer  the  bed  with  a  design  to  lay  his 
hand  (on  which  he  had  drawn  a  thin  sheet-lead 
glove)  across  her  face  ;  but  discovering  her  arm 
on  the  outside  of  the  bed-clothes  he  grasped  it — 
she  screamed  and  sprang  up  in  the  bed  ;  the  man 
then  left  the  room.  As  it  was  not  our  intention  to 
injure  the  lady,  but  only  to  drive  her  from  the 
house,  we  concluded  we  had  sufficiently  alarmed 
her  and  having  extinguished  the  lights,  were 
about  to  depart  when  we  heard  her  descending 
the  stairs.  She  came  down  and  examined  the 
doors  when  one  of  our  party,  in  a  loud  whisper, 
crying  '  away!  away  /"  she  darted  up  stairs, 
and  we  left  the  house. 

"  We  did  not  return  the  next  night  in  order 
to  give  her  time  to  get  off;  but  the  night'  after 
we  again  repaired  to  the  mansion,  expecting  that 
she  Ivid  gone,  but  we  were  disappointed.  .  As 
it  was  Into  when  w~  rrrived,  she  was  wrapped  in 
'p,  and  we  fund  th-it  more  forcible  measures 
must  be  resorted  to  before  we  could  remove  ht r,, 
and  for  such  measures  we  were  amply  prepared." 

The  stranger  then  unfolded  the  5m  Aeries  of 
that  awful  night,  when  Mu-lissa  was  .so  terrified 


ALOKZO   AND   MELISSA.  209 

by  horrible  appearances.  Oae  of  the  tallest  and 
most  robust  of  the  gang,  was  jitt'red  as  has  been 
described  when  he  appeared  by  her  bed  side.—  • 
The  white  robe  was  an  old  sheet  stained  in  some 
pans  with  a  liquid  red  mixture  ;  the  wound  in 
his  breast  was  artificial,  and  the  blood  issuing 
therefrom  w.as  only  some  of  this  mixture,  press 
ed  from  a  small  bladder,  concealed  under  his 
robe.  On  his  head  and  face  he  wore  a 


with  glass  eyes  ;  the   mask  was   painted  to  suit 

ff, 


their  purposes.    The  bloody  dagger  was 
and  painted. 

Thus  accoutred  he  took  his  stand  near  Melis 
sa's  bed,  having  first  blown  out  the  candles  she 
had  left  burning,  and  discharged  a  small  pistol. 
Perceiving  this  had  awaked  her,  a  train  of  pow 
der  was  fired  in  the  adjoining  room,  opposite  the 
secret  door,  which  was  left  open,  in  order  that 
the  flash  might  illuminate  her  apartment  ;  then 
several  large  cannon  balls  were  rolled  through 
the  rooms  over  her  head,  imitative  of  thunder* 
The  person  in  her  room  then  uttered  a  horrible 
groan,  and  gliding  along  by  her  bed,  took  his* 
stand  behind  the  curtains,  near  the  foot.  The 
noises  below,  the  cfy  of  murcl:  r  the  firing  of  ths 
second  pistol,  and  the  running  up  stairs,  were  all 
corresponding  scenes  to  imp-ess  terror  on  her 
imagination.  The  pretended  ghost  then  advan 
ce:!  in  front  of  her  bed,  while  lights  were  slowly 

•  introduced,  which  first  shone  faintly,  luitil  they 
were  ushered  into  the  room  by  tis  ~  -e  door, 

•  exhibiting  the  person  before  her  \\     [ 

c  e 


ALON2©  AND  MELISSA:. 

appearances.  On  her  shrieking,  and  shrinking 
into  the  bed,  the  lights  were  suddenly  extinguish 
ed,  and  the  person,  after  commanding  he;  i»>  be 
gone,  in  a  hoarse  voice,  passed  again  to  Uu  f  ot 
of  the  bed,  shook  it  violently,  and  made  a  setni- 
ing  attempt  to  get  upon  it,  when  perceiving  her 
to  be  springing  up,  he  fled  out  of  the  room  by 
the  secret  duor,  cautiously  shut  it,  and  joined  his 
companions. 

./Hie  >rs    had   not   yet  completed  t  eif 

fJfee,  or  rather  (to  Melissa)  tragedy.  They  had 
framed  -m  image  of  paste-board,  in  human  shap^9 
arrayed  it  in  black,  its  eyes  being  formed  of  large 
pieces  of  what  is  vulgarly  catted  jbx-Ji  re  *  made 
into  the  likeness  of  human  eyes,  some  material 
being  p;a:;ed  in- 'its  mouth,  around  which  was  a 
piece  of  innest  scarlet  tiffany,  in  order  to 

make  it  ;'p;x.ctr  of  a  flame  colour.  They  had  al 
so  constructed  a  1  uge  combustible  ball,  of  seve 
ral  thicknesses  of  paste -board  to  which  a  match 
was  placed.  T'he  mugc-  was  to  be  conveyed  in 
to  her  ro'.m,  a.nd  placed  in  the  dark,  before  her 
bed  ;  while  in  that  position,  the  ball  was  to  be 
rubbed  over  with  phosphorus,  the  match  set  ori 
fire,  and  rolled  across  her  chamber,  and  when  it 
burst,  th-'i  image  was  to  vanish,  b\  being  sudden. 
Cved  out  of  the  private  door,  which  was 
lose  the  scene  for  that  night.  But  as  Melissa 
!<ud  now  arisen  and  alighted  candles^  the  plan  was 

wood,  which  in  tiic  ni^iu    p- 
!Hir,     It ; 


ALONZO  AND. MELISSA-.  211 

defeated.  While  they  were  consulting  how  V: 
proceed,  they  heard  her  unlock  her  chamber- 
dor,\  ind  slowly  descend  the  .-tairs.  Fearing  u 
disc  Aerv,  they  retired  with  their  lights,  and  the 
person  wno  ii;td  been  in  her  chamber  not  having 
yer  stripped  otfhis  ghostly  habiliments,  Liid  him- 
se  f  down  on  cne  side  of  che  hall.  The  man  who 
had  the  image  crowded  himself  with  it  under  the 
stairs  she  was  descending.  Ou  her  dropping  the 
candle  when  she  turned  to  flee  to  her  chamber 
fro  n  the  sight  of  the  same  object  which  had  ap- 
p  Mred  at  her  bed- side,  the  person  under  the. 
st.iirs  presented  the  image  at  their  foot,  and  at 
the  same  instant  the  combustible  bail  was  prepar 
ed,  and  rolled  through  the  hall  ;  and  when  pa  its 
bursting  sue  fainted,  they  began  to  grow  alarm 
ed  ;  but  on  finding  that  she  recovered  and  re 
gained  her  chamber,  they  departed,  for  that  time, 
from  the  house^ 

"  Our  scheme  (continued  the  wounded  man) 
had  the  desired  effect.  On  returning  a  few  eve 
nings  after^  we  found  the  lady  gone  and  the  fur 
niture  removed.  Several  attempts  were' after 
wards  made  to  occupy  the  house,  but  \ve  alv 
succeeded  in  soon  frightening  the  inhabitants 
away." 

Edgar  and  Alonzo  then  requested  their  pris 
oner  to  shew  them  the  springs  of  the  secret 
doors,  and  how  they  were  opened.  The  springs 
were  sunk  in  the  wood,  which  being  touched  by 
entering  a  gimblet-hole  with  a  piece  of  pointed 
steel,  which  each  of  the  gang  always  had  about 


12  £LONZO   AND  MELISSA. 

him,  the  door  would  fiy  open,  and  fasten  again  in 
shutting  to.  On  opening  the  trap-door  over 
•which  the  gang  had  sat  when  they  first  discovered 
them,  they  found  the  table  and  chairs,  with  the 
decanters  broken,  and  the  money,  which  they  se 
cured.  In  one  part  of  the  cellar  they  were  shewn 
a  kind  of  cave,  its  mouth  covered  with  boards 
aud  earth  ;  here  the  company  kept  their  furni 
ture,  and  to  this  place  would  they  have  removed 
it,  had  they  not  been  so  suddenly  frightened 
away.  The  canoe  they  found  secreted  in  the 
bushes  beyond  the  canal. 

It  was  then  agreed  that  the  man  should  go  be 
fore  the  proper  authorities  in  a  neighbouring 
town,  and  there,  as  state's  evidence,  make  affida 
vit  of  what  he  had  recited,  and  as  compkte  a  cle- 
velopemcnt  of  the  characters  concerned  in  the 
business  as  possible,  when  he  was  to  be  releat  ed. 
The  man  enquired  to  what  town  they  were  to  go, 
•which,  when  they  had  informed  him,  u  Then 
(said  he)  it  will  be  in  my  power  to  perform  one 
deed  of  justice  before  I  leave  the  country,  as 
leave  it  I  must,  immediately  after  I  have  given, 
in  my  testimony,  or  I  shall  be  assassinated  by 
^ome  of  those  who  will  be  implicated  in  the  tran 
saction  I  have  related."  He  then  informed  them 

•^ 

that  while  he,  with  the  gang,  was  prosecuting  the 
illicit  trade,  a  British  ship  came  and  anchored  in 
the  Sound,  which  they  supplied  with  provisions-, 
but  that  having  at  one  time  a  considerable  quan 
tity  on  hand,  the  ship  sent  its  boat  on  shore,  with 
officer  and  five  men,  to  fetch  it  ;  uie  c 


ALOFZO   AND   MELtSSA. 

came  with  them  on  shore,  leaving  the  men  in  the 
boat  :  "  As  we  were  about  to  carry  the  provis 
ions  on  board  the  boat,  (continued  the  man)  a 
party  of  Americans  fired  upon  us,  and  wound 
ed  the  officer  in  the  thigh,  who  fell ;  "  I  shall  be 
made  prisoner  ;  (said  he,  taking  out  his  purse) 
keep  this,  and  if  I  live  and  regain  my  liberty, 
perhaps  you  may  have  an  opportunity  of  restoring. 
it  ;  alarm  the  boat's  crew,  and  shift  for  your-; 
selves."  The  boat  was  alarmed,  returned  to  the 
ship,  and  we  saved  ourselves  b)  flight. 

"  This  happened  about  four  months  ago  ;  the 
ship  soon  after  sailed  for  New- York,  and  the  of 
ficer  was  imprisoned  in  the  jail  of  the  town  to 
which  we  are  to  go  ;  I  can  therefore  restore  him 
his  purse."  The  man  farther  informed  them, 
that  they  had  several  times  come  near  being  ta 
ken,  and  the  last  trip  they  were  fired  upon  and 
one  of  their  party  killed. 

They  immediately  set  out  for  the  aforesaid 
town,  after  having  dismissed  their  fifteen  im-n  ; 
and  when  they  arrived  there,  Alorzo  and  Edgar 
accompanied  their  prisoner  to  the  jail.  On  ma 
king  the  proper  enquiries  they  were  conducted 
into  a  dark  and  dirty  apartment  of  the  juil,  where 
were  several  prisoners  in  irons.  The  British  of 
ficer  was  soon  distinguished  among  them,  by  his 
regimentals.  Though  enveloped  in  filth  and 
dust,  his  countenance  appeared  familiar  to  A- 
lonzo,  and  on  a  few  moments  recollection, 
he  recognized  in  the  manacled  officer,  the  L 
crous  midshipman;  Jack  Browji,  who  had  £0 


214  ALONZO  AND  MELISSA. 

disinterestedly  relieved  him,  when  he  escap'  cl 
from  the  prison  in  London  !  In  the  fervency  of 
his  feelings,  Alonzo  flew  to  him  and  cbvptc?  h*o» 
in  his  arms.  "  AVhat  do  I  behold  !  (he  cii£cl) 
My  friend,  my  brave  deliverer  in  chains  in 
pwn  country  !" — "  The  fortune  of  war  bo\  ; 
(said  Jack)  it  might  hsve  b^tn  worse..  E  i^  r,-y 
lad,  I  am  heartily  glad  to  see  you';  how  h •?*  it 
iared  with  you  since  you  left  Okl  Kn^laurf  <)?'  — 
«  We  will  talk  of  that  by  and  by  "  said  AJouzo," 

There  were  then  some  American  officers  of 
distinction  in  town,  with  whonj  Edgar  was  ac 
quainted,  to  whom  he  applied  for  the  relief  of  the 
noble  sailor;  and  as  there  were  se\eral  other 
British  prisoners  in  jail,  it  was  agreed  that  a  car 
tel  should  be  immediately  sent  to  New- York  to 
exchange  them.  Alonzo  had,  rherelore,  the  sat 
isfaction  to  see  the  irons  knocked  off  of  his  lib 
eral  hearted  benefactor,  and  his  prison-doors 
opened.  The  man  they  had  taken  at  the  man 
sion  returned  him  his  purse,  containing  only 
twenty-five  guineas,  of  which  Jbck  gave  him  ten. 
tc  There,  boy,  (said  he)  you  have  been  honest,  so 
I  will  divide  with  you."  They  then  repaired  to 
an  inn  ;  Jack,  whose  wound  was  healed,  was  j;ut 
under  the  hands  of  a  barber,  cleaned,  furnished 
with  a  change  of  clothes,  and  soon  apj, eared  in  a 
new  attitude. 

He  informed  Alonzo  that  soon  after  he  left 
England  his -ship  was  ordered  for  America  :  that 
the  price  of  provisions  growing  high,  it  hud  taken 
almost  a]i  his  wages  to  support  lib  family  ;  that 


ALONZO  AND  MELISSA:, 

he  had  sent  home  his  last  remittance  just  before 
IK-  v  as  taken,  reserving  only  the  twenty- live 
guineas  u-hkh  had  b;  en  restored  him  that  day. 
4  *Biit  I  have  :;evei  despaired  (said  he)  the  great 
Cntnmud  (re  of  life  orders  all  for  the  best ;  my. 
tour  c-1  dui\  is  to  serve  my  king  and  country,  and 
provide  for  my  dear  Poll  and  her  chicks,  which 
if  I  faithfully  perform,  I  shall  gain  the  applause 
of  the  Commander." 

When  the  cartel  was  ready  to  depart,  Alon 
zo  taking  Jack  apart  from  the  company,  pre 
sented  him  with  a  draught  of  five  hundred 
pounds  sterling,  on  a  merchant  in  New- York, 
who  privately  transacted  business  with  the  A- 
inericans.  "  Take  this,  my  friend,  (said  he) 
you  can  ensure  it  by  converting  it  into  bills  of 
exchange  on  London  ;  though  you  once  saw  me* 
naked,  I  can  now  conveniently  spare  this  sum, 
and  it  may  assist  you  in  buffeting  the  billows  of 
life."  The  generous  tar  shed  tears  of  gratitude, 
and  Alonzo  enjoyed  the  pleasure  of  seeing  him 
depart,  calling  down  blessings  on  the  head  of  hi:* 
reciprocal  benefactor. 

The  man  who  came  with  Alonzo  and  Edgar: 
from  the  mansion,  then  went  before  the  magis 
trates  of  the  town,  and'  gave  his  testimony  and 
affidavit,  by  which  it  appeared  that  several  emi 
nent  characters  of  Connecticut  .were  concerned 
in  this  illicit  trade.  They  then  released  him,, 
gave  him  the  money  they  had  found  in  the  cellar 
at  the  mansion,  and  he  immediately  left  the  town. 
Precepts  were  soon  after  issued  for  a  number  of 


216  ALON/IOANDMELISSA. 

those  traders,  several  were  taken,  arrtong  whom 
we ic  some  of  the  gang,  and  others  who  were  on 
ly  concerned,  but  most  of  them  absconded,  so 
that  the  company  aiid  their  plans  were  broken 
up. 

When  Alonzo  and  Edgar  returned  home,  and 
related  their  adventure,  they  were  all  surprised 
at  the  fortitude  of  Melissa  in  being  enabled  to 
support  her  spirits  in  a  solitary  mansion,  amidst 
such  great,  and  so  many  terrors. 

It  was  now  that  Alonzo  turned  his  attention 
to  future   prospects.     It    was    time   to   select  a 
place  for  domestic  residence.     He  consulted  Me 
lissa,  and  she  expressively  mentioned  the  little 
secluded  village,  where 

"  Ere  fate  and  fortune  frown'd  severe," 

they  projected  scenes  of  connubial  bliss,  and 
planned  the  structure  of  their  family  edifice.* 
This  intimation  according  with  the  ardent  wish 
es  of  Alonzo,  the  site  formerly  marked  out,  with 
an  adjoining  farm,  Was  immediately  purchased, 
and  suitable  buildings  erected,  to  which  Alonzo 
and  Melissa  removed  the  ensuing  summer. 

Hie  clergyman  of  the  village  having  recently 
died  in  a  good  old  age,  Edgar  was  called  to  the 
pastoral  charge  of  this  unsophisticated  people. — 
Here  did  Melissa  and  Alonzo  repose  after  the 
storms  of  adversity  were  past.  Here  did  they 
realize  all  the  .happiness  which  the  sublu: 

*  See  Ruffes  34  twl 


-ALONZO  AND  MEtlSSA.  217 

liaml  of  lime  apportions  to  mortals.  The  vary, 
ing  seasons  diversified  their  joys,  except  when 
Aloiizo  was  called  wit!  r  of  his  coun- 

try,  >  u  he  bore  an  eminent  commission,  to 

oppose  the  enemy  ;  and  this  was  hot  unfreqtient, 
as  in  his  country's  defence  he  took  a  very  con- 
spicuous  part.  Then  would  anxiety,  incertitude 
and  disconsolation  possess  the  bosom  of  Melissa, 
until  dissipated  by  his  safe  return.  But  the  hap. 
py  termination  of  the  war  soon  removed  all  cause 
of  these  disquietudes. 

Soon  after  the  close  of  the  war,  Alonzo  receiv 
ed  a  letter  from  his  friend,  Jnck  Brown,  dated  at 
an  interior  parish  in  England,  in  which,  after 
pouring  forth  abundance  of  gratitude,  he  inform 
ed,  that  on  returning  to  England  he  procured  his 
discharge  from  the  navy,  sold  his  house,  and  re 
moved  into  the  country,  where  he  had  set  up  an 
inn  with  the  sign  of  The  Grateful  American*— 
"  You  have  made  us  all  happy;  (said  he)  my 
dear  Poll  blubbered  like  a  fresh  water  sailor  in  a 
hurricane  when  I  told  her  of  your  goodness. — 
My  wife,  my  children,  all  hands  upon  deck  are 
yours.  We  have  a  good  run  of  business,  and 
are  now  under  full  sail  for  the  land  of  prosperity." 

Edgar  married  to  one  of  the  Miss  Simpsons, 
whose  father's  seat  was  in  the  vicinity  of  the  vil 
lage.  The  parents  of  Alonzo  and  Melissa  were 
their  frequent  visitors,  as  were  also  Vincent  and 
his  lady,  with  many  others  of  their  acquaint 
ance,  who  all  rejoiced  in  their  happy  situation, 

iv£ier  such  a  diversity  of  troubles.     Alfred  was 
Dd 


218  ALONZO  ANA  MELISSA. 

generally  once  a  year  their  guest,  until  at  length 
he  married  and  settled  in  the  mercantile  business 
in  Charleston,  Su-atii- Carolina. 

To  our  hero  and  heroine,  the  rural  charms 
of  their  secluded  village  were  a  source  of  ever 
pleasing  variety.  Spring,  with  its  verdured 
fields,  flowery  meads,  and  vocal  groves  ;  its  ven- 
nal  gales,  purling  rills,  and  its  evening  whipper- 
\vill :  Summer,  with  its  embowering  shade  s,  re 
flected  in -the  glassy  lake,  and  the  long  pensive, 
yet  sprightly  notes  of  the  solitary  strawberry, 
bird  •*  its  lightning  and  its  thunder  :  autumn, 
with  its  mellow  fruit,  its  yellow  foliage  and  de 
caying  verdure  :  winter,  with  its  hoarse  roi'gh 
blasts,  its  icy  beard,  and  snowy  mantle,  all  tend 
ed  to  thrill,  with  sensations  of  pleasing  transi 
tion,  the  feeling  bosoms  of  ALONZO  and  ME- 

LIS3A. 

*A  bird  which,  in  the  New-England  states,  makes  its  first 
•appearance  about  the  time  strawberries  begin  to  ripen,  hs 
song  is  lengthy,  and  consists  of  a  variety  of  notes,  commen 
cing  sprightly,  but  ending  plaintive  and  melancholy. 


SUPPLIED    BY 

THE  SEVEN  BOOKHUNTERS 


«*' 


